The world we know of cannot be achieved without computers - these technologies cannot be achieved without semiconductors. However, as wafers become smaller and smaller, their production also faces unique challenges, with pollution posing greater risks to their integrity and functionality.

One factor often overlooked in semiconductor manufacturing is the overall sealing process. Your seal will either fulfill your design or destroy it - making your life easier or more difficult. Every application is unique and requires a competent seal, so you can focus on the big picture without worrying about complexity. If you want to improve sealing in semiconductor manufacturing, we have five suggestions, and as sealing experts, we believe these five suggestions are crucial for robust sealing.

1. USE O-RINGS MADE IN A CLEANROOM

Firstly, since semiconductors are very sensitive to pollution, all components involved in their production should be free of particle traps and particles. This includes sealing components such as O-rings.

Clean rooms provide particle protection during production, cleaning, and packaging processes. In addition, using deionized water (DI water) to clean components in a clean room can remove additional contaminants.

In terms of water, anything other than hydrogen (H+) and hydroxyl (OH -) ions is considered impure. The deionization process can remove any other charged ions, bringing the water to the purest level. Using this water to clean products produced in the clean room before packaging helps to remove any particles generated during the production process, resulting in the production of ultra pure products.

2. LOOK FOR O-RINGS WITH HIGH CHEMICAL RESISTIVITY

Numerous chemicals are used in the production of semiconductors. They can improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of many electronic manufacturing processes. But they can also bring material compatibility issues to your design components, especially seals.

Many forms of rubber are easily corroded by these very harsh chemicals, which may lead to failure over time. Therefore, when designing seals, you may want to use a specific formula, such as FFKM, which is designed with high chemical resistivity.

3. CONSIDER CUSTOM SIZING

Your design is unique, and every seal required in the design should be carefully considered. In sealing design, there is no truly single "one size fits all" method, especially in complex applications. Although some seals may be simple, others require special methods. Therefore, it is important to consider the comprehensive options for sealing design and selection.

4. FIND AFFORDABLE PRODUCTS THAT DON’T COMPROMISE

Your seal is a critical component of your design. Due to its importance and sensitivity in semiconductor manufacturing, high-quality O-rings and other sealing solutions that meet industry requirements may quickly become expensive. After all, you need a high level of stability, resistance, temperature stability, long-term performance, and effectiveness.

But you can find these features without high prices. The key is to know the exact requirements, find suitable seals, and sometimes go beyond big brands to find the right solution.

5. TALK TO A SEALING EXPERT

When we say "know what you need and ask the right questions!” it only works if you, in fact, know what you need and ask the right questions.

When navigating through complex applications, consulting with sealing experts can greatly reduce your stress and significantly improve the sealing of semiconductor manufacturing. Sealing experts are responsible for reviewing your specific needs and applications, and providing recommendations to ensure a robust solution is provided. There's enough on your plate - becoming a seal expert doesn't have to be one of them.

WHERE TO FIND CLEANROOM MANUFACTURED O-RINGS

KALFLUO^® is a JST Seals’ product, which means it comes with all that JST Seals offers. We are dedicated to ensuring our customers have the best possible experience. That is why we offer unfettered access to our sealing experts, who will help you identify and customize a solution specifically for your needs. Moreover, we aim to make our products both affordable and readily available.

If you are looking to perfect your seal for semiconductor manufacturing, talk to our team today about what the affordable, highly durable, customizable, and readily available KALFLUO^® can do for you.

KALFLUO^® is manufactured, cleaned with deionized water, and packaged in a cleanroom. It was built for use in harsh environments. With a high chemical resistivity, it is able to withstand the chemicals used in semiconductor manufacturing as well as withstanding the solvents used for cleaning. It is also formulated for the high temperatures in developing semiconductors.

If you want to improve your sealing in semiconductor manufacturing, we have many compounds to make your life easier: consider KALFLUO^®, a high-quality and affordable FFKM compound designed specifically for sterile use in the semiconductor industry.