Semiconductors

There is extraordinary progress being made in technical innovation in the fields of semiconductors, flat panel displays, solar power generation and related areas. The integration density of semiconductor chips continues to increase: the width of the smallest individual transistors is now 45 nm, and it will be reduced to 32 nm in a few years time. Similarly, the size of flat panel displays continues to increase, and manufacturers invest in equipment for the production of 8th generation (2,500 mm by 2,300 mm) through 10th generation panels.

These developments mean that ever-more exacting demands are being made on the bearings, ball screws, linear guides and mechatronics products that are used in semiconductor and flat panel production equipment. These include requirements for:

• low dust emissions
• low gas emissions
• high heat tolerance
• corrosion resistance