Abstract: Provided herein are high throughput apparatuses for fabricating wire current collector and/or interconnect assemblies for solar cells. In certain embodiments, the wire assemblies include uniformly pitched serpentine wires. According to various embodiments, the apparatuses include a plurality of link heads connected to collapsible links, with the heads spaced apart when the links are in an uncollapsed position and stacked when the links are in a collapsed position. Alternating link heads engage opposite sides of the wire such that, when collapsed, the wire is threaded through engaging members of the heads in a serpentine configuration.

Abstract: A stirring nozzle used in an apparatus for abrasive wire cleaning. The stirring nozzles can be used in series to create multiple cleaning steps wherein fresh cleaning compound contacts the wire to be cleaned. The cleaning apparatus moves both the wire and an abrasive cleaning compound through the interior of the stirring nozzles. At the exit end of each stirring nozzle, cleaning compound is moved outward from the wire path. At the inlet end of each stirring nozzle, cleaning compound is moved inward toward the wire path. The sequential in-and-out movement mixes the cleaning compound.

Abstract: A stirring nozzle used in an apparatus for abrasive wire cleaning. The stirring nozzles can be used in series to create multiple cleaning steps wherein fresh cleaning compound contacts the wire to be cleaned. The cleaning apparatus moves both the wire and an abrasive cleaning compound through the interior of the stirring nozzles. At the exit end of each stirring nozzle, cleaning compound is moved outward from the wire path. At the inlet end of each stirring nozzle, cleaning compound is moved inward toward the wire path. The sequential in-and-out movement mixes the cleaning compound.