Abstract: A device and method for producing metal panels. First a metal melt is produced, then a substrate, having a lower temperature than the metal melt, is contacted with it so that some of the metal melt crystallizes on the substrate. The substrate is then moved relative to the metal melt so that a metal foil is formed on the substrate. The metal foil is divided into metal panels. The substrate has grooves which are used to fit partitions between the panels, and grooves which are filled with liquid metal. The latter grooves provide a reinforcement for the metal panels. A pattern of recesses and/or elevations can be provided in the substrate so that the same pattern is formed in the metal foil. The pattern may include parallel grooves which ensure that the surface of the foil is enlarged. In the case of solar cells this results in greater efficiency.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for producing metal panels. First a metal melt is produced, then a substrate, which has a lower temperature than the metal melt, is brought into contact with it so that some of the metal melt crystallises on the substrate. The substrate is then moved relative to the metal melt so that a metal foil is formed on the substrate. Finally the metal foil is divided into metal panels. According to the invention the substrate comprises grooves which are used to fit partitions between the panels, as well as grooves which are filled with liquid metal. The latter grooves provide a reinforcement for the metal panels. In addition a pattern of recesses and/or elevations can be provided in the substrate so that the same pattern is formed in the metal foil. The pattern may consist, for example, of parallel grooves which ensure that the surface of the foil is enlarged. In the case of solar cells this results in greater efficiency.