Sumitomo machines mould semiconductor wafer frames in Europe

Croatian manufacturer Meliori Polymer Engineering is using two Sumitomo (SHI) Demag IntElect injection moulding machines to produce polymer support frames for semiconductor wafers.

Croatian manufacturer Meliori Polymer Engineering is using two Sumitomo (SHI) Demag IntElect injection moulding machines to produce polymer support frames for semiconductor wafers. The all-electric machines were selected to meet the high levels of cleanliness, dimensional stability and process repeatability required for the components, which support wafers during chip production and cutting. Semiconductor wafers are thin discs, usually made from silicon, on which hundreds or thousands of chips are manufactured for applications including artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems and telecommunications equipment.

During production, the wafer must remain stable while the individual chips are cut, with polymer wafer frames supporting the wafer and attached film throughout this delicate process. Each eight-inch frame is injection moulded from a glass fibre and mineral-filled polyphenylene sulphide compound. According to Meliori, the material provides the mechanical strength required to hold wafers carrying between 1,000 and 10,000 chips, while also allowing the frames to be refurbished and reused.

The production cells are supported by an automated Computer Numerical Control (CNC) system that removes burrs from the moulded frames, as well as automated washing and drying equipment. Finished products are packaged in an ISO Class 6 cleanroom to minimise contamination. Meliori founder Marko Omazić said the standard IntElect machine provided the precision, reliability and production economics needed to compete with wafer frames currently imported into Europe from Asia.

The company has also introduced a return service under which used frames are inspected, refurbished, cleaned and repackaged before being supplied again. It said the energy efficiency of the IntElect machines contributes to the environmental benefits of the reuse model. Meliori, which describes itself as Europe’s only company manufacturing, cleaning and refurbishing polymer semiconductor support frames, has designed its Croatian facility to accommodate two additional production lines as demand grows.

The most important headlines delivered free to your inbox Subscribe to weekly newsletter