SAFC Hitech now offers bulk vapor deposition distribution for MOCVD systems

June 5, 2008
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

Product Briefing Outline: SAFC
Hitech has introduced the ‘EpiVapor’, a metalorganic vapor phase
distribution system for compound semiconductor manufacturing. EpiVapor
is designed to eliminate the need for localized tool bubblers and TCUs
by delivering vapors from highly volatile and sensitive pyrophoric
liquids directly to MOCVD systems.

Problem: Reducing the cost of transporting metalorganic chemicals to the tool plays a significant part in reducing overall COO. In addition, the reliable, flexible and highly controllable dosimetry of organometallic precursors is of paramount importance in production where downtime is prohibitively expensive, especially in volume manufacturing environments.

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

Solution: EpiVapor provides gas phase delivery of chemical vapors such as trimethylgallium (TMG) and trimethylaluminum (TMA) directly to multiple deposition tools in a safe, reproducible fashion. Flexible enough to connect to up to eight independent tools, the continuous delivery of metalorganic vapors offers a truly uninterrupted solution in the fabrication of semiconductor devices. The EpiVapor’s design ensures precursor flux stability in hydrogen (or other inert gas) carrier gas throughout the life of the ampoule, while adjustable parameters ensure that processes can be run at full capacity without stoppages to change out the tool bubblers. This optimizes process efficiency, reduces operational costs and increases safety, without compromising ultra high performance levels, according to the company.

Applications: Precursor vapor delivery for MOCVD/ALD deposition systems. TMG delivery for MOVPE HBTs and HBLEDs; DEZ and TMG delivery for MOCVD Solar Cells; TMA delivery for ALD high-k Al2O3 for logic, memory, and MEMS devices as well as for other high volatility III-V and silicon semiconductor precursors.

Platform: The EpiVapor system is comprised of an electronic and chemical element. The touch screen displays an array of information including bulk tank liquid levels, valve configurations, fluid and vapor flow paths and system pressure/vacuum, that allows the operation of the unit in both automatic (auto) and manual (service) modes. The chemical section of the EpiVapor system consists of a cabinet which is enhanced for the use of pyrophoric materials with smoke detectors, audible and visual alarms, a watchdog system for automatic operation, optional UV/IR flame detector, 110% containment spill tray, and manifold with fail safe pneumatic valves. The EpiVapor system is both S2-93/98 and S2-0200 certified and is CE marked, meeting all of the relevant European directives. 

Availability: June 2008 onwards.

Read Next

February 6, 2026
The Australian government has launched a formal inquiry into the reuse and recycling of solar modules across the country.
February 5, 2026
Figures from the Global Solar Council (GSC) suggest that Africa added 4.5GW of new solar PV capacity in 2025.
February 5, 2026
Sunwafe has selected Spanish engineering firm Tresca Ingenieria for the development of its 20GW ingot/wafer manufacturing facility in Spain.
February 5, 2026
Vietnam is the cheapest country to produce fully domestic solar modules outside of China, according to a report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
February 5, 2026
Portuguese PV cleaning specialist Chemitek Solar has launched a new solution for drone-based cleaning of agrivoltaic systems.
February 5, 2026
The governments of Turkey and Saudi Arabia have signed a 5GW renewables agreement to develop power plants in the former country.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Webinars
February 18, 2026
9am PST / 5pm GMT
Solar Media Events
March 24, 2026
Dallas, Texas
Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA
Solar Media Events
October 13, 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA