NORTH BILLERICA, Mass. — BTU International (Nasdaq: BTUI), a leading supplier of advanced thermal processing equipment for the alternative energy and electronics manufacturing markets, announces that it will highlight leading technologies in booth 189 at the upcoming Solar Power International 2009 expo, scheduled to take place October 27-29, 2009 in Anaheim, Calif.

“We are pleased to present a truly exciting array of new products,” said Jan-Paul van Maaren, Ph.D., BTU vice president marketing. “We have next generation technologies for both CdTe and CIGS thin film applications and for silicon photovoltaic use.”

In thin film photovoltaics, BTU leverages its experience with large-scale, custom, in-line thermal process systems for CdTe and CIGS processes. These systems can be well over 100' in length and include specialized features like coating capability and novel atmospheres. System design is scalable and systems are available for lab, pilot and production use.

In Silicon Photovoltaics, our new TRITAN™ Drying and Firing furnace is designed for faster process speeds in combination with innovative heating and gas delivery technology. With optimized wavelengths, wafers can be heated at a steep temperature gradient. The proprietary multi-drive system allows the drying and cooling sections to run at a reduced speed, keeping the same footprint and reducing operating costs.

BTU also will feature the MERIDIAN™ In-line Diffusion System, which just won the ‘Industry Choice Cell Award.’ This system combines BTU’s second generation phosphorus coating technology with quartz lined diffusion furnaces. The system is comprised of a direct spray phosphorus coater integrated with a conveyor belt diffusion furnace for processing silicon solar cells. The coater now includes backside, topside and drying capabilities, which can translate into improved cell efficiency. The system can be configured to achieve up to 1500 wafers per hour (156 mm). The in-line process offers reduced wafer handling and greater throughput than traditional batch processing. Reduced handling translates into lower breakage rates and improved yield.

BTU process experts will be on hand to answer questions and discuss requirements for both silicon and thin film photovoltaics. For more information, visit company representatives in booth 189.