F&L United: Expertise in Semiconductor Fabrication Support

April 26, 2024

The semiconductor fabrication sector thrives on advanced technology and meticulous precision. Each stage, from choosing materials to the final testing of products, demands a strictly managed environment to guarantee the quality and effectiveness of these highly complex components. Minor deviations in temperature, humidity, or air quality could lead to severe repercussions.

This is where F&L United enters the scene. Although our expertise in piping is renowned, our capabilities are much broader, including mechanical installations that are crucial for maintaining an ideal environment for semiconductor fabrication. We provide expert installation services for two essential systems: Recirculating Air Handlers (RAHs) and Make-Up Air Handlers (MAHs).

Recirculating Air Handlers (RAHs)

Visualize a large cleanroom, the core of a semiconductor fabrication plant. In this rigorously controlled area, arrays of advanced machinery operate continuously to manufacture the fundamental components of modern electronics. RAHs are integral in protecting this environment.

As indicated by their name, Recirculating Air Handlers primarily recirculate air within the cleanroom. This is not merely about moving air; RAHs undertake a detailed process to ensure the air remains pure and suitable for the sensitive task of semiconductor production:

  1. Filtration: RAHs utilize multiple high-efficiency filters, including HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, to eliminate dust, airborne particles, and other pollutants that could harm the wafers being processed. These filters are extremely efficient, capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns, about 1/70th the diameter of a human hair.
  2. Temperature and Humidity Control: Semiconductor production demands specific temperature and humidity levels to prevent warping or defects in the wafers. RAHs contain coils and dehumidification systems to accurately control these parameters, ensuring a stable and ideal environment.
  3. Airflow Management: RAHs are engineered to generate a unidirectional airflow pattern, ensuring a continuous flow of clean air over the wafers to prevent contamination.

Why are RAHs so Important?

Even the smallest particle can dramatically affect a semiconductor. A tiny dust speck can create a defect in the intricate circuitry, rendering a wafer useless. RAHs are vital in maintaining an exceptionally clean environment by continually filtering and managing the air within the cleanroom.

Moreover, precise control of temperature and humidity is crucial for various reasons. Excessive heat can cause wafers to warp, while fluctuating humidity can lead to unwanted layers on the wafer surface. RAHs ensure these conditions remain stable, protecting the integrity of the entire fabrication process.

Make-Up Air Handlers (MAHs)

While RAHs manage the clean air within the cleanroom, they do not operate alone. Constantly recirculating the same air can lead to an accumulation of heat, humidity, and potential contaminants that have bypassed the filters. This is where Make-Up Air Handlers (MAHs) are essential.

MAHs are tasked with introducing fresh, filtered air into the cleanroom. This new air supply helps to:

  • Maintain Air Quality: By adding a continuous stream of pre-filtered external air, MAHs help dilute and remove any contaminants that might have slipped through the RAH filtration system.
  • Control Temperature and Humidity: The fresh air from MAHs can be conditioned to meet the specific temperature and humidity needs of the cleanroom, aiding RAHs in maintaining a consistent environment.
  • Pressurization Control: Cleanrooms typically operate at a slightly positive pressure relative to surrounding areas to prevent the infiltration of unfiltered air. MAHs are instrumental in maintaining this pressure difference.

The Synergistic Dance of RAHS and MAHs

Consider RAHs and MAHs as partners in a crucial dance. RAHs meticulously clean and recirculate the air within the cleanroom, while MAHs introduce fresh, pre-filtered air to replenish the system and mitigate contaminant accumulation. This ongoing flow of clean air ensures the environment stays pristine, which is ideal for producing high-performance semiconductors.

F&L United: Your Partner in Semiconductor Fabrication Success

At F&L United, we recognize the vital roles that RAHs and MAHs play in semiconductor fabrication. Our team of skilled technicians has the knowledge and experience necessary to ensure these critical systems are installed and function optimally.