Edwards improves performance and longevity of integrated etch tool pumps

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Edwards has expanded its iXA family of magnetically-levitated turbomolecular pumps with the introduction of the STP-iXA2206 and STP-iXA3306 pumps. Developed for solar, glass coating, semiconductor and LCD etch applications, the iXA2206/iXA3306 pumps offer performance superior to that offered by earlier iXA family pumps.

Problem

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The STP-iXA2206 offers the same pumping speed of the earlier STP-A2203, yet the maximum throughput capability has been increased. The integration of the onboard controller eliminates the need for control unit rack mounting and a connection cable between the pump and the control unit, saving installation time, space and cost. Its compact design and size compatibility with previous models simplifies upgrades from existing pumps

Solution

The new STP-iXA2206/iXA3306 are fully-integrated vacuum pumps that are claimed to be easy to install and offer a small footprint. It features the latest-generation small power supply, which has been incorporated into the onboard controller first introduced with the STP-iXA2205 pump. It also includes a temperature management system option to minimize the formation of process-generated byproducts. The pump’s five-axis magnetic bearing system and new motor and drive system ensure long life and low operating costs with maintenance intervals as long as five years.

Applications

Fully-integrated vacuum pumps for Etch requirements.

Platform

The STP-iXA3306 offers industry-leading pumping performance. It has a maximum pumping speed of 3200 liters per second and improved throughput performance at high gas flows.

Availability

December 2010 onwards.
 

Read Next

Premium
May 29, 2026
PV Talk: India’s renewable market is shifting toward dispatchability as standalone solar faces mounting intermittency pressure and storage moves to the centre of new procurement models.
May 29, 2026
Solar PV solutions provider Nextpower has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire BESS system integrator Prevalon Energy for up to US$365 million.
Premium
May 29, 2026
PV Talk: Kiwa PVEL's Tristan Erion-Lorico discusses highlights in the 2026 Module Reliability Scorecard, including UVID and delamination.
May 29, 2026
The Iran war energy shock will “reshape” global energy investment strategies, according to the executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA).
May 29, 2026
Zelestra has completed the sale of its Latin America platform to Promigas in a deal valued at approximately US$1.1 billion.
Premium
May 29, 2026
Trina's THBC - which combines TOPCon, HJT and BC - aims to leverage existing TOPCon capacity and increase the efficiency of C-Si single-junction cells.

Upcoming Events

Media Partners, Solar Media Events
June 2, 2026
Johannesburg, South Africa
Media Partners, Solar Media Events
June 3, 2026
National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai)
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA
Media Partners, Solar Media Events
June 30, 2026
Sacramento, California
Media Partners, Solar Media Events
August 25, 2026
São Paulo, Brazil