Samco Inc. focuses on manufacturing equipment for compound semiconductors, such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN), as a strategic step for business expansion.

The company notes that in China, the production of compound semiconductors, especially for power devices, has been increasing. Accordingly, the demand for manufacturing equipment is also strong. In addition to these trends, Samco aims to further expand its business in China. Specifically, it promoted its high technological capabilities at SEMICON China 2024.

Tsukasa Kawabe, President & Chief Operating Officer, said, “Our main products in the Chinese market are etch systems and CVD systems. Our business in the Chinese market has been strong, achieving a 30% increase in terms of orders. Currently, the percentage of orders received overseas exceeds 50%.”

Promoted Plasma Enhanced CVD Systems

While the semiconductor market, especially for silicon, has been sluggish since last year, compound semiconductors have been performing well.

At SEMICON China, the company presented two types of Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) systems: PD-220NL for research and development (R&D) and PD-2201LC for production. Specifically, the PD-220NL is a Plasma Enhanced CVD system for thin film deposition of SiO₂ and SiNx, etc. Meanwhile, PD-2201LC is a production system for similar deposition, showcasing high reliability and a proven track record. Also, PD-2201LC is a production system for similar film deposition. It has been delivered to many customers.

Kawabe commented, “The level of technology in China is increasing, and demand is rising for both R&D and mass production. (Also), the business is booming, but there is a sense of overheating in the market; so, we need to keep a close eye on the situation. We will develop our business in a well-balanced manner without being overly biased toward any particular region.”

Samco has also shown strong performance. It posted record highs in sales, operating income, and ordinary income for the fourth consecutive year until the first half of the new fiscal year.

This is an English translation of a Japanese article originally published in Dempa Shimbun Daily.

-19 April 2024-