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

June 15, 2026
HVR Solar has signed a series of agreements to develop of a 1.2GW TOPCon solar cell manufacturing plant in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh. 
June 15, 2026
SECI is inviting bids for 4,800MWh of firm and dispatchable renewable energy capacity supported by co-located energy storage systems. 
June 15, 2026
Enphase Energy has launched its IQ9N Microinverter, which uses gallium nitride (GaN) technology, for the European residential solar sector.
June 15, 2026
CPUC has finalised details of its community solar, which has been dismissed as 'unworkable and destined for continued failure' by CLASS.
June 15, 2026
SmartHelio, the Swiss solar predictive analytics specialists, has secured new investment from the technology funder quantumEDGE Ventures to develop its technology and expand into new markets.
June 15, 2026
New Zealand gentailer Contact Energy has completed installation of all solar modules at the 150MW Kōwhai Park solar PV power plant at Christchurch Airport.

Upcoming Events

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
Media Partners, Solar Media Events
September 1, 2026
Mexico City, Mexico
Media Partners, Solar Media Events
September 9, 2026