What Is the Use of Laser Technology in Semiconductors?
Laser technology is part of the team of manufacturing methods that has become an essential part of semiconductor manufacturing. Semiconductors are a fascinating technology and really part of the reason this content is available to a worldwide audience. Semiconductors are like special one-lane roads. Normally, electricity wouldn’t flow very well through them. But, by adding a few extra cars (special impurities), you can control the traffic flow (electricity) and make it go one way or another. This control is what makes them super useful in building tiny switches and other components that power all our electronics! With such power and capabilities for advancements in just about every aspect of commercial commerce, semiconductors affect manufacturing if found in short supply. To keep up with high demand, semiconductor OEMs need to use a team of highly skilled contractors. These range from systems analysis, programing, materials, electronic testing, manufacturing and so many more.
With so much need for precision and reliability, laser cutting for the semiconductor companies is a high priority for laser service providers. They understand the requirements of tight tolerances, quality and the need for high volume capacity. The support that laser technology provides is not the star nor in the spotlight of the semiconductor industry, but the contribution made is vitally important. A key example of this is the manufacturing of precision laser cut gaskets and how they are used in semiconductor manufacturing:
Protecting Purity:
- Sealing: Gaskets form tight seals around various components in semiconductor equipment. This prevents contaminants like dust, moisture, and even air from entering the processing chamber.
- Maintaining a Clean Room Environment: Semiconductors are incredibly sensitive to impurities. Gaskets help maintain the ultra-clean environment needed for flawless chip production.
Controlling the Environment:
- Holding Up Under Pressure: Gaskets come in various materials like silicone, fluoroelastomer, or even polyurethane. Each is chosen for its ability to withstand the specific pressures encountered in different stages of processing.
- High Thermal Tolerance: Semiconductor processing often involves high temperatures. Gaskets are specifically selected to maintain their integrity and sealing ability even when the heat is on.
Chemical Containment:
- Chemical Barriers: Strong acids, alkalis, and organic solvents are used throughout semiconductor processing. Gaskets are chosen to be resistant to these chemicals, preventing them from degrading the gasket material and compromising the seal.
Lasers also are used in other steps and processes within the supply chain of semiconductor manufacturing. There is wafer dicing, laser scribing to weaken the area before dicing occurs. Laser via creation that creates tiny holes that connect multiple layers within the chip, laser marking to permanently etch part numbers and other information. Lasers can also produce mechanical components, housing, vacuum stages, and numerous other devices required for processing. With capabilities to cut materials like stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, copper, molybdenum, grafoil, nitrile rubber, silicone rubbers, polyimides and many more, lasers are versatile in their use by the industry. Semiconductor laser support services in many ways are involved in the creation of chips in a supporting role by creating a clean and pure environment that is stable and free of contamination. They dice completed chips into single units and can be part of the development of internal structures. These beams of pure light are part of the process revolutionizing the world of semiconductors, the brains behind everything from your smartphone to the latest satellites. As the growth of technology moves along, the need for faster and more intelligent chips will be needed. This progress will require the support of numerous subcontractors and the technologies they each have. The advantages of semiconductor laser processingThe Importance of High-Precision Components will undoubtedly continue to contribute to this growth and success of advancing technology.