Key takeaways:
ConfirmWare offers 2 layup systems designed to position cell strings onto the module stack using gantry-based pick-and-place automation
Both models support multiple string configurations and cell formats, including half-cut, 1/3-cut, and 1/4-cut cells across module sizes up to 2,600 × 1,450 mm
The newer LBM120A model offers higher throughput than the ALM100A, while both systems maintain similar cycle times, yields, and operating uptime
Extending its CTS product line, ConfirmWare also offers layup stations, and it has provided data for 2 systems for the TaiyangNews Market Survey on Solar Module Production Equipment 2026. The first one is a 2023 model ALM100A, and the other – LBM120A – was launched the following year. Both layup systems from the company share identical specifications, except for stringer compatibility and the resulting specification differences. As to the specs for input material for these systems, the strings, ConfirmWare’s tools are flexible. Both models can accommodate string lengths of 560 to 1,300 mm, laying 10 to 12 strings per module, and the number of cells per string is also configurable depending on the module type.
In the tool setup, the strings are picked and placed using a gantry robot system with 2 axes of motion for the robotic arm. Both models are compatible with different string formats ranging from 156 to 230 mm in length, using 1/2, 1/3, or 1/4 cut cells, and with possible matrix configurations of 12 × 12, 12 × 10, and 10 × 10 strings. These models can lay up modules up to 2,600 × 1,450 mm. A vision system is used for string matrix inspection, with standard manual edge-auto taping and an automatic taping option available. String positioning is accomplished with a layup accuracy of ±0.3 mm.
The key difference starts with compatible in-house stringers. The ALM100A layup system is ideally suited for the stringer series of a similar name, AMS100A and AMS100CA, which are not listed in the current survey. The other model, BM120A, is mainly designed for the 2 variants of the AMS120 series – AMS120CA and AMS120A – one of which is also featured in the survey. However, ConfirmWare emphasizes that its layup systems are also compatible with comparable third-party stringers. A more apparent difference is reflected in the throughput – while the latter supports 1,080 strings/hour, the somewhat older ALM100A system is rated at a slightly lower 960 strings/hour. However, both systems are rated with the same cycle time of 45 seconds for 12 strings. Another apparent difference is the footprint: the smaller ALM100A model measures 3,735 × 3,183 × 2,507 mm, while LBM120A has a larger footprint of 5,702 × 3,190 × 2,417 mm. The total production uptime for both models is at least 95%, and a mechanical yield of 99%.
The text is an edited excerpt from TaiyangNews’ latest Market Survey on Solar Module Production Equipment 2026, which can be downloaded for free here.
