In today’s semiconductor manufacturing landscape, the decision between repairing existing equipment and investing in replacements has become increasingly complex. As technology advances and budgets tighten, understanding the cost-effectiveness of repair solutions has never been more crucial. Let’s explore why choosing strategic repair options often presents the smarter financial decision for forward-thinking organizations.

Understanding the True Cost Equation

When facing equipment challenges, the immediate reaction might be to consider replacement as the default solution. However, this approach often overlooks the comprehensive financial picture. The true cost comparison between repair and replacement extends far beyond the initial price tag, encompassing various factors that impact your organization’s bottom line.

Consider a typical semiconductor manufacturing facility‘s automated equipment. A new replacement system might cost anywhere from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, while professional repair services often represent just 15-30% of replacement costs. But the financial benefits of choosing repair extend far beyond these initial savings.

Hidden Costs of Equipment Replacement

Replacement decisions carry numerous hidden costs that many organizations fail to fully consider:

• Extended Production Downtime
• New System Integration Requirements
• Staff Retraining Needs
• Software Updates and Licensing
• Potential Facility Modifications

The Repair Advantage: A Strategic Approach

Professional repair solutions offer several distinct financial advantages. Modern repair services combine technical expertise with advanced diagnostic capabilities, ensuring that repaired equipment meets or exceeds original performance specifications. This approach delivers immediate cost savings while maintaining production quality and reliability.

Case Study: ROI Analysis

Let’s examine a real-world scenario: A semiconductor facility faced with a malfunctioning robotic handling system had two options:

1. New System Purchase: $850,000

• Additional Integration Costs: $125,000
• Downtime: 3-4 weeks
• Total Impact: ~$1.2 million

2. Professional Repair Solution: $195,000

• Diagnostic and Repair Time: 1 week
• Performance Validation: Included
• Total Impact: ~$250,000

The repair solution delivered 79% cost savings while reducing operational disruption by 75%.

Long-term Financial Benefits

Choosing repair over replacement offers several long-term financial advantages:

Extended Equipment Lifecycle Professional repairs can extend equipment life by 5-7 years, spreading initial investment costs over a longer period. This extension significantly improves return on investment while maintaining operational efficiency.

Reduced Capital Expenditure By opting for repairs, organizations can redirect capital to other critical investments, improving overall financial flexibility and resource allocation.

Maintenance Cost Optimization Modern repair solutions often include preventive maintenance recommendations, helping reduce future repair costs and extend equipment longevity.

The Technology Factor

Today’s repair solutions leverage advanced diagnostic tools and techniques that weren’t available even a few years ago. These technological advances mean that repaired equipment often performs at levels comparable to new systems, but at a fraction of the cost.

Key technological advantages include:

• Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities
• Precision Repair Techniques
• Performance Validation Systems
• Quality Assurance Protocols

Environmental and Financial Synergy

The cost-effectiveness of repair solutions aligns perfectly with environmental responsibility. By choosing repair over replacement, organizations:

• Reduce Electronic Waste
• Lower Carbon Footprint
• Support Sustainable Manufacturing
• Minimize Resource Consumption

These environmental benefits often translate into financial advantages through reduced disposal costs and improved corporate sustainability metrics.

Making the Smart Choice

When evaluating repair versus replacement decisions, consider these key factors:

1. Total Cost Analysis

• Include all direct and indirect costs
• Consider implementation timeline
• Factor in operational disruption

2. Performance Requirements

• Evaluate repair quality guarantees
• Compare performance specifications
• Consider future upgrade paths

3. Long-term Impact

• Calculate extended lifecycle value
• Assess maintenance requirements
• Consider technological evolution

Building a Strategic Approach

To maximize the benefits of cost-effective repair solutions, organizations should develop a structured evaluation process:

1. Regular Equipment Assessment
2. Preventive Maintenance Planning
3. Repair Partner Selection
4. Performance Monitoring Systems

The financial wisdom of choosing professional repair solutions over equipment replacement has never been clearer. As technology advances and repair capabilities expand, organizations that embrace strategic repair solutions position themselves for both immediate cost savings and long-term financial benefits.

In the competitive semiconductor manufacturing industry, making smart investment decisions is crucial for maintaining both operational excellence and financial health. By choosing professional repair solutions, organizations can achieve these objectives while contributing to sustainable manufacturing practices.

In an era where industrial automation continues to reshape manufacturing landscapes, the global repair and maintenance market for industrial robotics is experiencing unprecedented growth. This surge reflects a fundamental shift in how companies approach equipment lifecycle management, particularly in high-precision industries like semiconductor manufacturing. The trend signals not just market expansion, but a deeper understanding of the long-term benefits of professional maintenance and repair services.

Market Dynamics and Growth Drivers

The industrial robotics repair and maintenance sector is witnessing remarkable expansion, driven by several key factors. As manufacturing facilities increasingly rely on automated systems, the need for specialized repair services has grown proportionally. This growth isn’t merely about fixing broken equipment; it represents a strategic shift toward maximizing return on investment through extended equipment lifecycles and optimized performance.

The semiconductor industry, in particular, has emerged as a leading force in this market evolution. With the increasing complexity of manufacturing processes and the high cost of robotic systems, companies are recognizing that professional repair and maintenance services offer a compelling alternative to the traditional “replace rather than repair” mindset.

Economic Impact and Cost Considerations

The financial implications of professional robot repair and maintenance services extend far beyond immediate cost savings. When we examine the total cost of ownership, the advantages become clear. A well-maintained robotic system can operate at peak efficiency for years beyond its expected lifecycle, providing substantial return on the initial investment.

Consider the cost structure of modern manufacturing facilities. New robotic systems represent significant capital expenditure, often running into millions of dollars. In contrast, professional repair services typically cost a fraction of replacement costs while delivering comparable performance outcomes. This economic efficiency has become particularly relevant as companies focus on optimizing their operational budgets without compromising production capabilities.

Technological Advancements in Repair Services

The repair and maintenance sector has evolved significantly, incorporating advanced diagnostic tools and predictive maintenance technologies. Modern repair services now utilize sophisticated analysis equipment, allowing technicians to identify potential issues before they lead to system failures. This proactive approach has transformed how companies view maintenance services, shifting from reactive repair to preventive maintenance strategies.

Repair facilities have also adapted to handle increasingly complex robotic systems. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning has enhanced diagnostic capabilities, while advanced repair techniques ensure restored systems meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications.

Environmental Sustainability and Market Growth

One of the most compelling aspects of the growing repair market is its positive environmental impact. As sustainability becomes a central focus for manufacturing operations, the ability to extend equipment lifecycle through professional repair services aligns perfectly with corporate environmental responsibilities. This approach significantly reduces electronic waste and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing new replacement systems.

The repair market’s growth reflects an industry-wide recognition that sustainable practices can coexist with operational excellence. Companies are increasingly factoring environmental considerations into their equipment maintenance decisions, driving further expansion in the repair services sector.

Quality Assurance in Repair Services

The growth of the repair market has been accompanied by enhanced quality assurance protocols. Professional repair facilities now operate under stringent quality control systems, ensuring that repaired equipment meets precise operational specifications. This is particularly crucial in semiconductor manufacturing, where even minor deviations can impact production quality.

Modern repair facilities maintain:

• Certified technician training programs
• Advanced testing and validation procedures
• Comprehensive documentation systems
• Rigorous quality control protocols

Market Trends and Future Outlook

The repair and maintenance market shows no signs of slowing down. Industry analysts project continued growth, driven by:

• Increasing automation across manufacturing sectors
• Rising costs of new equipment
• Growing emphasis on sustainable operations
• Advanced repair technologies and capabilities

The Role of Specialized Expertise

As the market expands, the importance of specialized expertise becomes increasingly apparent. Successful repair services require not just technical knowledge, but deep understanding of specific industry requirements. This is particularly true in semiconductor manufacturing, where cleanroom protocols and precise operational parameters must be maintained throughout the repair process.

The robust growth in the industrial robotics repair and maintenance market represents more than just a business trend – it signals a fundamental shift in how companies approach equipment lifecycle management. This growth reflects the convergence of economic wisdom, environmental responsibility, and technological capability, creating a sustainable model for industrial equipment maintenance.

As we look to the future, the continued expansion of this market seems assured. Companies that recognize the value of professional repair services position themselves to benefit from both operational efficiency and cost effectiveness, while contributing to more sustainable manufacturing practices.

In the ever-evolving landscape of semiconductor manufacturing, precision control within cleanroom environments stands as the fundamental pillar of quality, reliability, and production efficiency. As automation continues to drive the industry forward, understanding and maintaining precise control mechanisms in cleanroom settings has become more critical than ever before. The intricate dance of maintaining these environments requires a sophisticated understanding of multiple interconnected systems and protocols, all working in harmony to maintain the exacting standards required for semiconductor manufacturing.

The Foundation of Precision Control

At the heart of cleanroom precision control lies a complex network of environmental parameters that must be maintained with unwavering accuracy. Temperature regulation must be maintained within ±0.5°C tolerance, while humidity control typically needs to stay within 45% ±5% RH. These strict parameters are just the beginning of what makes precision control such a challenging yet crucial aspect of semiconductor manufacturing.

Modern facilities have revolutionized their approach to maintaining these exacting standards through the integration of advanced robotic systems. These systems incorporate high-precision servo motors, sophisticated controllers, and real-time feedback mechanisms, all designed to operate within the unique constraints of a cleanroom environment. The result is a level of repeatable accuracy within micrometers, consistent performance across extended operational periods, and significantly reduced risk of human-induced contamination.

Environmental and Technical Challenges

The maintenance of precision control in cleanroom environments presents a unique set of challenges that facilities must constantly address. Particle management stands as one of the most critical concerns, requiring:

• Continuous monitoring of particle counts
• Implementation of effective filtration systems
• Management of static electricity
• Prevention of cross-contamination

Temperature stability presents another significant challenge, particularly when considering the heat generated by equipment and its impact on measurement accuracy. These technical challenges extend into the realm of equipment calibration and system integration, where the complexity of maintaining precise control becomes even more apparent.

The Industry 4.0 Revolution

The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies has transformed how we approach precision control in cleanroom environments. Data analytics and IoT integration have created new possibilities for maintaining and improving precision control systems. Real-time performance monitoring, predictive maintenance capabilities, and automated alert systems now form the backbone of modern cleanroom operations. This technological evolution has not only improved accuracy but has also enhanced our ability to prevent issues before they arise.

Economic and Environmental Considerations

When implementing precision control systems, facilities must carefully balance performance requirements with economic realities. The initial investment in equipment, installation, and training must be weighed against the long-term benefits of reduced waste, improved yield, and enhanced product quality. Modern systems must also address growing environmental concerns, incorporating energy-efficient designs and sustainable practices without compromising performance.

Future Trends and Innovations

The future of precision control in cleanroom environments is being shaped by emerging technologies that promise even greater levels of accuracy and automation. Artificial intelligence is leading this charge, offering advanced process control capabilities and predictive maintenance features that were previously impossible. Advanced robotics continue to evolve, providing enhanced precision capabilities while maintaining stricter contamination control standards.

Best Practices for System Maintenance

Maintaining precision control systems requires a structured approach to both regular maintenance and performance monitoring. Key aspects include:

• Scheduled inspections and preventive maintenance
• Continuous data collection and analysis
• Regular system updates and component replacement
• Comprehensive documentation and training

The Road Ahead

As we look to the future of semiconductor manufacturing, the importance of precision control in cleanroom environments will only continue to grow. The integration of advanced technologies with proven methodologies creates systems that are both highly accurate and sustainable. Success in this field requires a delicate balance of maintaining exact standards while adapting to new capabilities and requirements.

Organizations that master these aspects while maintaining efficient operations will continue to lead the industry forward. The future of precision control lies not just in the technology itself, but in our ability to implement and maintain these systems in ways that drive both productivity and sustainability.

The mastery of precision control in cleanroom environments remains a critical factor in semiconductor manufacturing success. As technology continues to advance, the importance of maintaining exact standards while adapting to new capabilities becomes increasingly vital. The future belongs to those who can successfully integrate cutting-edge technology with proven methodologies, creating systems that are both highly accurate and sustainable.

Let us know how we can with your robotic repair needs in a clean-room environment today.

The semiconductor industry relies heavily on precision equipment, with magnetic levitation (Mag 7) stages being crucial components in wafer processing. While replacement might seem like a quick fix, strategic repair offers substantial benefits that directly impact your bottom line and operational efficiency.

1. Cost-Effectiveness: The Numbers Don’t Lie

• Average new Mag 7 replacement cost: $50,000-$75,000
• Typical comprehensive repair cost: 30-40% of replacement
• Additional savings in reduced downtime
• Extended service life through preventive maintenance

3. Technical Advantages of Professional Repair

• Preservation of original OEM specifications
• Opportunity for performance optimization
• Detailed diagnostics revealing systemic issues
• Integration of updated control parameters
• Maintenance of critical setup configurations

4. Common Mag 7 Issues Suitable for Repair

• Bearing system wear
• Control system malfunctions
• Sensor calibration drift
• Power supply irregularities
• Position accuracy degradation

5. The Repair Process: Precision and Expertise

• Comprehensive diagnostic assessment
• Cleanroom-compliant repair procedures
• Original specification restoration
• Performance validation testing
• Documentation and traceability

6. Long-term Benefits of Repair Strategy

• Reduced capital expenditure
• Minimized production interruptions
• Maintained system familiarity for operators
• Preserved process recipes and parameters
• Enhanced equipment reliability

7. Environmental Impact

• Reduced electronic waste
• Lower carbon footprint
• Sustainable manufacturing practices
• Resource conservation

8. When to Consider Repair vs. Replacement Repair is optimal when:

• Basic structure is intact
• Performance issues are identified early
• Original specifications are still relevant
• Budget constraints exist
• Quick turnaround is needed

9. Best Practices for Mag 7 Maintenance

• Regular performance monitoring
• Preventive maintenance scheduling
• Early intervention for issues
• Proper documentation
• Operator training

10. ROI Analysis

• Short-term cost savings
• Long-term reliability benefits
• Reduced inventory requirements
• Minimized qualification time
• Protected intellectual property

In today’s competitive semiconductor manufacturing environment, strategic equipment maintenance is crucial. Repairing Mag 7 stages not only offers significant cost savings but also ensures continued reliability and performance. By choosing repair over replacement, manufacturers can maintain their competitive edge while protecting their capital investments.

In today’s climate-conscious world, the semiconductor industry faces a crucial decision: repair or replace? At AESG, we’ve long advocated for strategic repair solutions, not just for cost efficiency but for a compelling reason that affects us all – environmental sustainability.

The Hidden Environmental Cost of Replacement

When facilities opt to replace automated equipment rather than repair it, they contribute to:

• Electronic waste (e-waste) accumulation
• Increased carbon footprint from manufacturing new components
• Raw material depletion
• Additional transportation emissions from shipping new equipment

The Green Benefits of Repair

1. Waste Reduction

   • Each repaired Mag 7 stage or SCARA robot means one less unit in landfills
   • Minimizes packaging waste associated with new equipment
   • Reduces the demand for raw materials

2. Energy Conservation

   • Repair processes typically consume less energy than manufacturing new components
   • Maintaining original OEM specifications ensures optimal energy efficiency
   • Local repairs reduce transportation-related emissions

3. Resource Optimization

   • Extended equipment lifecycle through expert diagnostics
   • Preservation of valuable materials already in circulation
   • Maximized return on initial environmental investment

The AESG Approach

Our commitment to environmental stewardship is reflected in our:

• Advanced diagnostic techniques that precisely identify repair needs
• Cleanroom protocols that ensure longevity of repaired components
• Expertise in legacy equipment maintenance, preventing premature disposal
• Quality assurance processes that maintain OEM specifications

Making an Impact: The Numbers

Consider this: A single piece of semiconductor manufacturing equipment contains hundreds of pounds of specialized materials. By choosing repair over replacement:

• Reduce your facility’s carbon footprint by up to 70%*
• Extend equipment life by 5-10 years
• Minimize contribution to the 50 million tons of annual e-waste globally

Looking Forward

As semiconductor manufacturing continues to evolve, sustainable practices become increasingly crucial. By choosing repair over replacement, facilities can:

• Meet environmental compliance standards
• Contribute to corporate sustainability goals
• Lead industry environmental initiatives
• Maintain production efficiency while reducing environmental impact

The Choice is Clear

At AESG, we’re not just fixing equipment – we’re contributing to a more sustainable semiconductor industry. Our expertise in diagnostic and testing techniques, combined with our commitment to environmental responsibility, makes repair the smart choice for both your facility and our planet.

Ready to make an environmentally conscious choice for your automated equipment? Contact AESG to learn more about our sustainable repair solutions.

SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) robots have revolutionized industrial automation with their precision, speed, and reliability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore these remarkable machines and their maintenance requirements to ensure optimal performance.

Understanding SCARA Robots

SCARA robots are specialized industrial robots designed with a parallel-axis joint layout that enables exceptional performance in:

• High-precision assembly operations
• Pick-and-place tasks
• Electronics manufacturing
• Food processing applications

Key Specifications

Modern SCARA robots offer impressive capabilities:

• Payload capacity: Up to 20 kg
• Reach: 350mm to 1,100mm
• Repeatability: ±0.01mm precision
• Cycle times: As fast as 0.36 seconds for standard operations

Essential Maintenance Practices

Daily Maintenance Tasks

1. Visual inspection of all components
2. Check for unusual sounds or vibrations
3. Verify smooth movement in all axes
4. Clean external surfaces and work area

Regular Preventive Maintenance

Every 600 Hours:

• Lubrication check of all joints
• Cable inspection for wear and tear
• Calibration verification
• Performance testing

Every 5,000 Hours:

• Complete system diagnostics
• Bearing inspection and maintenance
• Motor performance evaluation
• Software updates and backup

Industry Applications

SCARA robots excel in various industrial settings:

Electronics Assembly

• PCB handling
• Component placement
• Quality inspection

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

• Medical device assembly
• Sterile packaging
• Laboratory automation

Food Processing

• Package handling
• Product sorting
• Quality control

Maintenance Best Practices

To maximize your SCARA robot’s lifespan:

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

• Adhere to recommended maintenance schedules
• Use only approved lubricants and parts
• Document all maintenance activities

Monitor Performance Metrics

• Track cycle times
• Monitor power consumption
• Record error frequencies
• Analyze productivity data

Staff Training

• Provide regular operator training
• Maintain updated maintenance procedures
• Implement safety protocols

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common challenges and solutions:

• Accuracy drift: Perform calibration checks
• Unusual noise: Inspect bearings and joints
• Slow performance: Check programming and mechanical components
• Position errors: Verify encoder functionality

Future-Proofing Your Investment

To ensure long-term reliability:

1. Implement predictive maintenance strategies
2. Consider upgrading control systems periodically
3. Stay informed about software updates
4. Maintain spare parts inventory

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of SCARA robots is crucial for maintaining their precision and reliability. By following these guidelines and maintaining a regular maintenance schedule, you can ensure optimal performance and extend the life of your robotic systems.

In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, SCARA (Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm) robots continue to be workhorses of automation. Let’s explore the cutting-edge trends revolutionizing how we approach their maintenance and repair.

1. Predictive Maintenance Goes AI-Powered

The biggest game-changer in SCARA robot repair isn’t fixing problems—it’s preventing them before they occur. Modern predictive maintenance systems now incorporate:

• Machine learning algorithms that detect subtle performance changes
• Real-time sensor data analysis
• Automated maintenance scheduling
• Performance pattern recognition
• Wear-and-tear predictions based on usage patterns

2. Remote Diagnostics & Repair

The rise of Industry 4.0 has transformed how we approach SCARA robot maintenance:

Virtual Support Solutions

• Remote troubleshooting via augmented reality
• Live video diagnostics with expert technicians
• Cloud-based performance monitoring
• Real-time data sharing and analysis

IoT Integration

• Continuous performance monitoring
• Automated alert systems
• Digital twin technology for testing
• Remote software updates and patches

3. Modular Repair Approaches

The latest trend in SCARA repair focuses on modularity:

• Plug-and-play components
• Quick-swap modules for minimal downtime
• Standardized repair protocols
• Universal component compatibility

4. Sustainable Repair Practices

Environmental consciousness has reached the robotics repair sector:

• Refurbished parts programs
• Eco-friendly lubricants
• Energy efficiency optimization
• Waste reduction initiatives
• Extended lifecycle management

5. Advanced Training Methods

Modern SCARA repair training has evolved significantly:

Virtual Reality Training

• Immersive repair simulations
• Risk-free practice environments
• Real-time feedback systems
• Scenario-based learning

Augmented Reality Support

• Step-by-step repair guidance
• Interactive maintenance manuals
• Visual component identification
• Real-time expert assistance

6. Cybersecurity in Repair

With increased connectivity comes new security considerations:

• Encrypted diagnostic tools
• Secure remote access protocols
• Authentication requirements
• Regular security audits
• Protected firmware updates

7. Mobile-First Maintenance

The mobile revolution has reached SCARA repair:

• Mobile apps for diagnostics
• Digital maintenance logs
• QR code component tracking
• Instant access to repair histories
• Real-time collaboration tools

8. Data-Driven Repair Strategies

Modern repair approaches rely heavily on data:

Analytics Integration

• Performance tracking
• Failure prediction models
• Cost optimization analysis
• Maintenance scheduling optimization

Documentation Evolution

• Digital repair histories
• Automated reporting
• Performance trending
• ROI analysis

9. Collaborative Repair Networks

The industry is seeing a shift toward shared knowledge:

• Online repair communities
• Expert networks
• Shared case studies
• Best practice databases
• Cross-facility collaboration

10. Cost-Effective Solutions

New trends in cost management include:

• Preventive maintenance programs
• Extended warranty options
• Performance-based contracts
• Automated inventory management
• Predictive budgeting tools

Looking Ahead

The future of SCARA robot repair continues to evolve with:

• Integration of quantum computing for complex diagnostics
• Advanced materials for longer component life
• Self-healing materials and components
• Enhanced automation in repair processes
• Artificial Intelligence-driven optimization

Conclusion

The landscape of SCARA robot repair is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancement and industry demands. Staying current with these trends isn’t just about maintaining equipment—it’s about maximizing efficiency, reducing downtime, and ensuring long-term reliability in an increasingly competitive industrial environment.

Key Takeaways

• AI and machine learning are revolutionizing predictive maintenance
• Remote solutions are becoming increasingly sophisticated
• Sustainability is a growing focus in repair practices
• Training methods are evolving with new technologies
• Data-driven approaches are optimizing repair strategies

Contact us at AESG, and let’s make a plan for your SCARA robots.

AESG is offering a new service program to assist in setting up legacy automation in legacy capital equipment.

AESG supports legacy SCARA OEM’s, most of whom have been out of business for years now. During their heyday, each SCARA OEM had their own specific set of commands by which to control the robot, pre-aligner or stage. Of this broad range of commands, their customers, the tool OEM’s, would down select specific commands for their particular application. Traditionally the tool OEM would be the first line of defense in any troubleshooting, but especially when setting up the robot, pre-aligner or stage as these components would set the tool throughput.

A slow teach would mean a less than committed tool throughput. Since many tools warranty structure and performance metrics are based on tool throughput, a slower taught robot would hit the tool OEM in the pocketbook. The fact that the tool OEM’s would not inform the SCARA OEM of the commands they used was secondary to this throughput concern. It just makes a difficult situation all the more problematic.

Since machine tools are designed to perform longer than it takes to pay for them, lots of these legacy tools are still being used today. Unfortunately, most of the tribal knowledge of how a particular tool OEM set up a particular SCARA OEM’s components has been lost to the mists of time. Fortunately for you, AESG has picked up some of this lost knowledge. While we cannot commit to teach the tool for process qualification, we have extensive expertise with the SCARA OEM’s we support and how some of the tool OEM’s use these components. As such, we can assist you in setting up a legacy SCARA or stage in a legacy machine tool. Just ask!

As the market further evolved into the 300mm/12” wafer size, single chamber tools effectively died out sequestering atmospheric SCARA robots to the EFEM and vacuum SCARA’s in the cluster tools. This divergence impacted the value proposition of the atmospheric SCARA as it operated similarly in all EFEM’s for any give process or inspection/metrology toolset. Radically different that the origins of atmospheric SCARA’s that were tailored to a specific capex toolset and thus provided a competitive advantage for the tool OEM. This dummying down of the atmospheric SCARA effectively commoditized this robot and this lead to significant downsizing in the number of atmospheric SCARA OEM’s that supported semicapex.

In the meantime, vacuum SCARA’s evolved as the processing under vacuum complexity increased. While they had limited z-strokes (maybe up to 35mm or so) their handling requirements increased significantly. They became part of the process tool world in that they could negatively impact yields by allowing contaminates to fall onto the end effector of the robot and then instigate cross-contamination between chambers, the transport module, cooling stations and the load locks. And let’s not forget speed, since wafers per hour were the reason for cluster tools coming into being, the vacuum SCARA’s were required to move extremely quickly.

Back in the 2010 timeframe, tool OEM’s wanted the industry to transition to 450mm (18”) wafers. This was primarily because the average sales price for a new 450mm tool was significantly higher than a 300mm tool and this would help the tool OEM’s grow their business to unheard of heights. So the big American tooling OEM’s went to Washington D.C. to convince the federal government to allow for mergers previously prohibited. This would enable the tool OEM’s to achieve the critical mass necessary to launch 450mm toolsets.

But while 450mm failed, the consolidation was never undone. So while competition defined the early days of semiconductor capex, oligarchies defined the new world of capex. This brutal consolation further hammered the SCARA supply chain as with few customers, and few opportunities to define a defensible  value proposition that would drive revenue and profits, the vacuum SCARA’s OEM’s started to die out just as the atmospheric SCARA’s died out 20 years previously.

The push towards 450mm was partially driven by the tooling OEM’s desire to move on from the smaller wafer sizes and only sell new equipment. And never upgrade older tools. But the risk is massive in having an entire ASIC on built on one wafer. The industry can’t accommodate reworks of work in process because so many of the process steps, once done, can’t be undone. So while the tooling OEM’s were focused on 450mm, the semiconductor fabs were focused on using their existing infrastructure of 200mm and 300mm factories.

This gave rise to “chiplets” that are basically ASIC building blocks that enable folks like Qualcomm to build their 5G Snapdragon chipsets at five different semiconductor fabs: three die’s are made at 200mm factories and two dies are made on 300mm tooling. Qualcomm has four of the chips sent to the fifth factory where all five chips are “die stacked” into a package that is then put into a leadframe that will then be encapsulated and given wires that can be then integrated into the end use device.

This radical change in the market place has extended the life of the older tooling that used single chamber tools and atmospheric SCARA’s. Unfortunately, most of the SCARA OEM’s that were used in these tools are no longer in business.  

Understanding the history behind the SCARA enables our AESG techs to better understand how to repair the new models and help to develop innovative ways to continue to repair and rebuild the equipment used today in the Semiconductor industry. Let us know how we can help with your SCARAs today!