Learning and development for Solar Panel Manufacturers: stringer, laminator and model changes
Few people understand the stringer and laminator, and a model change asks everybody to learn again. A skill list and short sessions spread that knowledge.
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In a panel plant the technician who clears a stringer stoppage or runs the laminator is worth more than any one operator, and there are only a few. When they are off, the line waits for a call. Cell technology changes, a new module model arrives and operators must relearn tabbing, layup and inspection. Training is a hurried talk on the first shift of the new model, and defects rise.
A good learning process starts with a skill list for each station and who can do it alone. Technicians train a second person on stoppages with a written step card, on the shift where it occurs. Inspectors refresh on defect samples at fixed intervals. For a model change, a short session covers what is different, with a trial run before volume. Each learner is signed off on a task, and the list is updated.
How to set it up
1. List skills by station
Cell sorting, stringing, layup, lamination, framing, flash test, EL test and inspection. Mark who can do each alone.
2. Write stoppage step cards
Ask the technician to note the steps for the most common stoppages on the stringer and laminator. Put them at the machine.
3. Train a second person
Pair a learner with a technician for scheduled shifts. Give the technician time and credit. See learning and development.
4. Refresh inspectors
Run short sessions on defect samples at fixed intervals, such as monthly, and after each model change.
5. Plan the model change
Before a new model, hold a short session on what is different, run a trial batch and review results with operators before volume.
Check these first
Before changing anything, find out what is true today. These take an afternoon and use your own records.
- Count how many technicians can clear a stringer or laminator stoppage alone.
- Ask a night supervisor which stoppage they cannot fix without calling someone.
- List who has been signed off on each station.
- Check the last model change and how operators were briefed.
GullyHR can do this with you. Read how we approach learning and development in general, or share your requirements and we will tell you where to start.
Questions owners ask
Recognise them for teaching, give them a clear path and fair pay, and avoid leaving them as the only person who can fix a stoppage. A trained backup lets them take leave and be less stressed.
Brief operators on what is different, run a trial batch with extra checks and gather their feedback before full volume. Update the skill list and the step cards afterwards.
Often enough that defect judgement stays sharp, such as a short session each month using real samples. After any model change, run a session sooner.