26 June 2012

Edwards introduces iXH645H dry pump optimized for LED and compound semiconductor manufacturing

Vacuum and exhaust- abatement equipment maker Edwards Ltd of Crawley, UK has launched its iXH645H dry pump, which is optimized for MOCVD processes used in LED manufacturing, as well as for compound semiconductor manufacturing using III-V materials in gate stacks.

iXH645H delivers very high gas flow capability and is able to operate continuously at the high loads required for the latest-generation LED manufacturing tools, says the firm. The pump’s advanced technology minimizes maintenance requirements and maximizes uptimes, helping to lower cost-of-ownership.

“This new addition to our iXH family of dry pumps is designed to address the needs of two rapidly growing segments of high technology manufacturing,” said Wei Shao, Edwards’ LED market sector manager. “Due to their superior lighting efficiency, LEDs are increasingly being seen as an environmentally-friendly alternative to incandescent lighting, as shown by recent legislation passed in China, Korea, Japan and the U.K to phase out traditional high power lighting.”

Shao adds, “At the same time, the use of III-V materials in compound semiconductor manufacturing is enabling the continuation of Moore’s Law to next-generation design nodes.”

LED and compound semiconductor manufacturing processes typically use high flows of light hydrogen and ammonia gasses. The iXH645H has been optimized to support these requirements with superior hydrogen pumping performance and a corrosion-resistant design, including a patented nitrogen purge barrier to protect the pump seals. The high-temperature capabilities of the pump help prevent condensation of the phosphorous compounds which may be present. Furthermore, its oil lubrication and seal technology eliminate periodic maintenance requirements, while its thermal and motor design prevent overheating, motor overloads or zones of limited operation, says the firm. The pump’s optimized temperature control system ensures the pump is ready for process within approximately 30 minutes of start-up.

Visit Edwards at booth 5351 in the North Hall during InterSolar and SEMICON/West, taking place July 10-12, 2012 in San Francisco, California, USA, to learn more about the iXH Series

Tags: Edwards Dry pumps MOCVD LEDs

Visit: www.edwardsvacuum.com