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Azbil Launches New Sapphire Capacitance Diaphragm Gauges with MEMS Processing Technology to Enhance Resistance to Deposition

TOKYO, Feb. 2, 2023: Azbil Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange code: 6845) announced the availability as of January 25 of its model V8 sapphire capacitance diaphragm gauges, which employ MEMS^*1 processing technology to enhance resistance to deposition^*2 on the sensor.

As part of the continuing evolution of semiconductor manufacturing, the front-end film deposition and etching processes now use a wider variety of gases. Depending on the process gas used, film deposits may form on the sensor diaphragm of the vacuum gauge used in these processes, resulting in a shift of its zero point. Such a shift causes operators of film deposition and etching equipment to adjust the vacuum gauge more frequently, interfering with manufacturing plans.

Azbil has in the past developed products to deal with this problem, which continues to occur with the use of new gases. In seeking a better solution, Azbil has thoroughly redesigned its current sapphire capacitance diaphragm gauge and released the model V8, which has a sensor with a new structure, flow path, etc. MEMS technology is used to make the sensor chip’s surface uneven, helping to break up film deposited on the sensor diaphragm. Stress^*3 is now better balanced (also in models with an improved version of the flat sensor used in existing gauges), making the diaphragm surface less likely to flex. As a result, the amount of zero point shift in the model V8 due to film deposits has been dramatically reduced to one-tenth that of the existing model SPG.

The model V8S features a control unit that is separated from the gauge head, allowing use in temperatures as high as 250 °C. Such high-temperature environments are often found in atomic layer deposition (ALD)^*4 equipment due to changes in the process gas.

Features:

• Higher resistance to deposition on the sensor
  With MEMS technology, the amount of zero point shift due to film deposits formed on the sensor has been reduced to one-tenth that of the model SPG.
• Resistance to temperatures as high as 250 °C
  The model V8S (separated model) for high temperatures was added to the lineup in response to changes in the process gases.
• Compact size with smaller footprint
  By arranging components more efficiently inside the product, its volume has been reduced by 40% compared to the model SPG.

Visit here for product details
https://www.azbil.com/products/factory/factory-product/transmitter/pressure/v8/index.html

Guided by the azbil Group’s philosophy of “human-centered automation,” Azbil aims to make contributions “in series” to a sustainable society and secure its own sustainable growth. It provides solutions for problems at production sites that meet customer needs.

^*1 Microelectromechanical systems. Various devices or systems such as sensors that incorporate microscopic electrical and mechanical elements on one chip.
^*2 In semiconductor manufacturing, this refers to a film formation process that produces a thin film.
^*3 The force generated inside a component when it receives an external force.
^*4 A film deposition technology used in a vacuum.

* Posted information is accurate as of the date of announcement.