Today from SEMICON West, OEM Group, global manufacturer of semiconductor process equipment, introduced the Torrent™ Spray Acid Tool (SAT), the world’s most advanced batch spray tool for semiconductor wet etch and cleans processes.
Featuring proprietary independent flow control nozzles, wafer-to-wafer repeatability, sealed PVDF tanks, Smart Parts™ intelligence and more, the Torrent defines the new normal in wet wafer processing applications for semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, optoelectronics, MEMS and compound semiconductors.
“Industry 4.0 is creating an inflection point for technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence, machine learning, edge computing and autonomous vehicles, increasing the demand for high-density devices, sensors and power electronics.” said Spencer Wall, president, OEM Group. “As device dimensions continue to shrink, and varied technologies call for heterogeneous integration, best-in-class tools targeting back-end-of-line wafer-level processes are vital.”
Meeting the stringent specifications for advanced wafer level packaging processes such as under bump metallization, redistribution layer patterning and backside wafer thinning at high volumes calls for the most advanced manufacturing equipment available on the market. Specifically, for MEMS and compound semiconductors, 300mm process solutions for metal etch and polymer removal are in high demand.
“We designed the Torrent to meet the wet wafer processing production demands of today and for the future,” said Rich Maduzia, Global Product Marketing Manager, OEM Group. “Based on the production-proven Semitool and Cintillio platforms, we added enhancements to expand the process window, created a more user-friendly interface and improved controls by building in intelligence. We believe this tool to be the most advanced batch spray tool in the world.”
In addition to proprietary adjustable AccuFlow nozzles that control flow rates up to 40/lpm, The Torrent SAT features easy access to, and proper placement of, filters to eliminate gas locks that may impede flow. The process chamber was designed with improved drain channel output. The increased chamber depth eliminates the so-called first-wafer effect, which happens when the first few wafers run after idle time have less than optimal processing and must be scrapped, impacting yield.
Dynamic temperature control allows process temperature tuning from 0°C to 80°C. A common rotor design with inserts makes the Torrent ideal for bridge tools and fabs with multiple substrate sizes up to 300mm. Additional features include:
- Maintenance-free sealed tanks that eliminate the risk of internal tool leaks
- A pull-out PLC drawer for easy maintenance and troubleshooting
- Next-generation software with graphical user interface, and wide touchscreen capability when using Windows 10
- Offline recipe editor and download, for easier recipe creation and editing
The Torrent platform can also be configured for spray solvent applications.
To learn more about the Torrent SAT, visit us during SEMICON West at Booth 531 or schedule a meeting with us at the Kiterocket Lounge, which is located at the Samovar Restaurant.
Source: https://www.oemgroupinc.com/