SOFC Tape Casting
Keko equipment developed several tape casting machines for SOFC tape production.
Since the tape is thick and heavy, only horizontal versions of our casting machines are use for this application. Due to the long tape drying time, the drying section of the tape casters can be up to 20 meters long. Casting width can be up to 450 mm.
Slurry is supplied from a pressure vessel to the casting head.
Tape caster model CAM-H3515 |
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A laser sensor and precise slurry level feedback accurately maintain a constant slurry level throughout the tape casting process.
The tape is heated from the bottom using heating plates and from the top with heated air in counter flow; this method provides maximum drying efficiency.
The number of drying zones is defined depending on many parameters, e.g. slurry properties. Side inspection windows on the drying section allow constant monitoring of the cast tape.
All casting parameters, i.e. tape thickness, drying temperatures, speeds, etc are set through a touch screen and controlled by a PLC.
Optionally, a connection and software to remotely monitor the casting process on a PC is available. Another option is to use EX proof dryer components for solvent based slurry systems.
After firing the tape, the electrodes are deposited on the electrolyte sheet by screen printing.
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Automatic screen printer FCP-2IR |
For high volume applications an automatic screen printer, the FCP-21R, is used with 3 seconds print to print cycle. Print lay-down is usually high, so an IR drier is used for faster drying.
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