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How is Additive Manufacturing Helping the Semiconductor Industry

Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is a critical part of the semiconductor industry. It allows manufacturers to create custom components for their products, which can improve productivity, reduce costs, and enable new designs

Additive Manufacturing is a game-changer for capital equipment manufacturers in the semiconductor industry, delivering immediate benefits. With AM’s design flexibility and seamless transition from prototyping to customized part production, capital equipment manufacturers experience a significant advantage.

The improved thermal management of critical components like wafer tables, results in enhanced equipment accuracy, speed, and overall lifecycle value. 3D printing technologies also offer structural optimization with lightweight, high-strength components, improving the strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistant materials, and time-to-market. Moreover, AM simplifies manufacturing, eliminating the need for labor-intensive brazing and multipart assemblies.

Benefits of Additive Manufacturing in the Semiconductor Industry

Streamlined Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing eliminates the need for brazing and multipart assemblies, reducing part count and labor costs. This results in more reliable wafer tables.

Material Efficiency

AM processes typically use only the material needed to fabricate the part, reducing waste compared to traditional subtractive methods. Capable of working with specialized materials like engineering grade polymer, ESD-safe polymer material, metal, and ceramic that are integral to semiconductor manufacturing.

Rapid Prototyping

  • Faster Design Iterations: Additive manufacturing allows quick prototyping of semiconductor components, enabling engineers to test and optimize designs more efficiently.
  • Reduced Development Time: Accelerates the timeline from concept to functional prototype.

Customization

  • Tailored Components: Ability to produce customized parts and tools for specific semiconductor manufacturing processes.
  • On-Demand Production: Eliminates the need for large inventories of specialized tools and components.

Cost-Effectiveness

  • Lower Tooling Costs: Eliminates the need for expensive molds and dies for small production runs.
  • Reduced Overheads: Enables smaller-scale production with less investment in traditional manufacturing infrastructure.

Micro- and Nano-Fabrication

  • Precision Manufacturing: Emerging advancements in AM allow for precise production of micro- and nano-scale components critical in semiconductors.
  • Integration with Traditional Techniques: Complements other fabrication techniques for hybrid manufacturing.

Benefits of Additive Manufacturing in the Semiconductor Industry

  • Custom Tooling: AM can produce masks, lithography equipment, and other tooling components.

  •  

    Equipment Repair: Additive repair of damaged semiconductor fabrication equipment.

  • Prototypes for Micro 3D: Intricate components such as microelectronic substrates, sensors, and insulators, advancing the miniaturization and performance of electronic devices.

3D Printing Service Malaysia , 3D Printing service Singapore ,  3D Printing service KL , 3D Scanning Malaysia

Collaborate with 3D printing bureau to choose the best material and optimize build orientation for your project’s needs. Explore our 3D Printing Materials Guide to learn about various plastic and metal materials across technologies.

Discover more about additive manufacturing at projet.my. For assistance, reach out to our applications engineer at [email protected] or +604-2858 335.

HIPS

HIPS is a multifunctional material. It shares many mechanical properties with ABS plastic, but as the name suggests, it has a much higher resistance to impact. This added strength makes HIPS an excellent choice for creating durable 3D-printed parts that can withstand everyday wear and tear.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.04
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 40
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1600
  • Elongation(%): 18
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 80
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PMMA-Like Resin

PMMA Like clear resin has high transparency and anti-yellowing, suitable for high transparency applications in non-high temperature environments. The transparent resin has imitation acrylic, glass appearance.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.05
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 40
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 40
  • Elongation(%): 32
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): –
  • Hardness Shore D: 78

Nylon12 Glass Fibre40 Blue-gray

This grey-blue composite nylon powder, enhanced with 40% glass beads, creates 3D-printed parts with exceptional stiffness and heat resistance. Powder reuse rate can reach up to 100%.

Suitable for: SLS

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 0.72
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 46
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 2,800
  • Elongation(%): –
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 160
  • Hardness Shore D: –

Nylon 12 Glass Fibre 30

PA12GB30 is a high-performance material with excellent chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties, ideal for engineering applications. Compared to PA6, it absorbs significantly less moisture, preserving strength and shape in humid environments. With added glass fiber reinforcement, it offers enhanced durability, stiffness, and stability, making it a reliable choice for demanding conditions.

Suitable for: SLS

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.25
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 62.6
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 2,340
  • Elongation(%): 6.8
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 160
  • Hardness Shore D: –

Rubber-Like Resin

Rubber-like resin has a low tensile modulus and high elongation at break, making it well-suited for objects that will be bent or compressed.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): –
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 7.9
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): –
  • Elongation(%): 255.1
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): –
  • Hardness Shore D: 60-75

ABS-Like Resin

ABS-like resin excels in high precision, providing a smooth surface quality with exquisite detail features. Known for its superior forming dimensional stability, this resin is ideal for the assembly and testing of various engineering models. Achieving a perfect balance between tensile strength and hardness, it prevents brittleness with its high elongation at break, ensuring resistance to breaking.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.05-1.13
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 42-62
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 60-80
  • Elongation(%): 11-21
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): –
  • Hardness Shore D: 75-80

Nylon-Like Resin

Nylon-like resin is a high-strength material known for its excellent durability and long-term stability. It also boasts exceptional toughness and impact resistance.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.05-1.15
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 68
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 35
  • Elongation(%): 15
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): –
  • Hardness Shore D: 75

Hard-Tough Resin

This hard resin boasts higher toughness and impact resistance compared to standard ABS-like resin, making it exceptionally well-suited for mechanical prototypes.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.08-1.12
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 30-60
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 30-75
  • Elongation(%): 35-52
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 60
  • Hardness Shore D: 75-81

High Temp. Resin

High Temp Resin is characterized by high hardness, strength, modulus, and precision. It exhibits resistance to prolonged heating at 120°C or boiling at 100°C, showcasing excellent mechanical properties, weather resistance, and temperature resistance.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: NO

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.09-1.10
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 70-85
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 95-105
  • Elongation(%): 35-40
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 100.5
  • Hardness Shore D: 82-84

General Resin

General resin, known for its high rigidity, proves to be a versatile material ideal for both functional testing and rapid prototype.

Suitable for: SLA

Application

  • Prototype

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: NO
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: NO
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.08-1.13
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 46-67
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 46-72
  • Elongation(%): 28-36
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): –
  • Hardness Shore D: 78-82

Ultem1010 PEI (Polyetherimide)

PEI is a high-performance industrial-grade thermoplastic known for its strength, durability, and low flammability. This versatile material finds applications in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medicine, and dentistry.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: NO
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: NO

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.27
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 56
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 2510
  • Elongation(%): 3
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 208
  • Hardness Shore D: –

Ultem9085 PEI (Polyetherimide)

PEI is a high-performance industrial-grade thermoplastic known for its strength, durability, and low flammability. This versatile material finds applications in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medicine, and dentistry.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: NO
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: NO

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.34
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 54
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 2170
  • Elongation(%): 3
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 158
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PEEK (Polyether ether ketone)

PEEK (polyetheretherketone) is a high-performance semi-crystalline industrial thermoplastic known for its exceptional resistance to harsh chemicals, minimal moisture absorption, excellent fire performance, superior mechanical strength over a wide temperature range, and reliable dimensional stability.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.29
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 100
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 4200
  • Elongation(%): 40
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 140
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PET-CF (Carbon fiber reinforced polyethylene terephthalate)

PET-CF emerges as a superior choice over nylon for printing functional parts in high-humidity environments. Its high-temperature resistance and minimal warping make it ideal for crafting mechanical assembly parts, including automotive accessories and fixtures. In comparison to PETG-CF, PET-CF contains a higher concentration of carbon fibre, resulting in significantly greater strength and high temperature resistance.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.29
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 131
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 5320
  • Elongation(%): 1.2
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 205
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PAHT-CF (High temperature polyamide carbon fiber reinforced)

A composite of PA and carbon fibre, merges the low water absorption advantage of PA with the high-performance attributes of carbon fibre. This combination yields excellent mechanical and thermal properties that remain robust even in wet conditions. PA+CF is prized for its outstanding chemical resistance, low moisture absorption, and versatile processing capabilities.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.06
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 125
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 4230
  • Elongation(%): 1.8
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 194
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PLA-CF (Carbon fiber reinforced polylactic acid)

Carbon fibber reinforced PLA, stands out for its remarkable increase in stiffness and strength. This cutting-edge bio-polymer, when combined with recycled carbon fibber reinforcement, results in a higher mechanical properties

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.22
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 89
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 3950
  • Elongation(%): 3.2
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 55
  • Hardness Shore D: –

ESD-safe (Electrostatic discharge)

It exhibits excellent antistatic performance, making it particularly suitable for fields that require ESD protection.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.08-1.11
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 35-37
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1300-1500
  • Elongation(%): 5-7
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 98
  • Surface Resistance: 107 and 109 ohms Ω

UL 94-V0

It possesses higher mechanical properties and is halogen-free, environmentally friendly, and flame retardant, achieving a UL94V-0 level flame retardancy. This makes the product more fireproof and safer.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.05
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 45
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 2400
  • Elongation(%): 30
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 85
  • Hardness Shore D: –

ASA (Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate)

ASA shares excellent mechanical properties with ABS but offers additional benefits. It is more resistant to ultraviolet rays and harsh weather conditions, making it particularly suitable for outdoor use. ASA boasts strong toughness, rigidity, and high impact resistance.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: NO
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 50
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 4300
  • Elongation(%): 30
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 88
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PP (Polypropylene)

Polypropylene (PP) is a popular material in 3D printing, valued for its versatility, strength, and chemical resistance. This lightweight and flexible plastic stands up well to acids, bases, and organic solvents, making it suitable for a range of applications. Additionally, PP is considered food-safe, though standard 3D printing food safety guidelines should still be followed.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.05
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 21-26
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1200
  • Elongation(%): 30
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 80
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PC (Polycarbonates)

PC is a high-performance material known for its toughness, heat resistance, dimensional stability, and high optical clarity. It exhibits excellent mechanical properties, high toughness, and impact resistance, making it stable and durable. Additionally, PC offers impressive temperature resistance, with a heat distortion temperature up to 80 ℃.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.21
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 54
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1073
  • Elongation(%): 150
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 80
  • Hardness Shore D: –

Nylon / PA (Polyamide)

Nylon is a versatile material known for its good flexibility, wear resistance, and high strength-to-weight ratio. PA12, in particular, exhibits high toughness and impact resistance.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.21
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 50
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 659
  • Elongation(%): 165
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 100
  • Hardness Shore D: –

TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane)

TPU material is renowned for its excellent flexibility, high elasticity, tear resistance, wear resistance, cut resistance, sturdiness, and durability.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: NO
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.21
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 35
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): –
  • Elongation(%): ≥800
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): –
  • Hardness Shore D: 95A

PETG (Polyethylene terephthalate glycol)

PETG is a robust material known for its odor neutrality and ease of printing. These characteristics, combined with high impact strength, flexibility, low shrinkage, water resistance, chemical resistance, and high toughness, make PETG an excellent choice for a variety of applications.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: NO
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: YES
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.27
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 52
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1073
  • Elongation(%): 83
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 64
  • Hardness Shore D: –

ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene)

ABS is a lightweight material known for its high impact resistance. These characteristics, coupled with a high heat deflection temperature, render ABS suitable for a wide range of applications and environments.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype
  • End-User part

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: YES
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: YES
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.06
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 40
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1203
  • Elongation(%): 30
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 73
  • Hardness Shore D: –

PLA (Polylactic acid)

PLA is an environmentally friendly biopolymer-based material that is both stiff and easy to print. It is available in a wide variety of colours.

Suitable for: FDM

Application

  • Prototype

Application Fields

  • Aerospace: NO
  • Automotive: YES
  • Industrial Machinery: NO
  • Consumer Electronics: YES
  • Automation: YES
  • Medical: NO
  • Education Community: YES

Material Property

  • Density(g/cm3): 1.23
  • Tensile Strength(MPa): 60
  • Flex Modulus(MPa): 1973
  • Elongation(%): 20
  • Heat Distortion Temp(°C): 53
  • Hardness Shore D: –