Murata Manufacturing Ltd., a leading components manufacturer, has opened a new production line at its facility in Caen, France. For that reason, the company has broadened the scope of its integrated passive solutions.

Following the initial announcement in 2023, Murata has fulfilled its commitment to establish a new 200mm mass production line. Specifically, the new line aims to bolster its Silicon Capacitor manufacturing capabilities. The Caen facility, operated by Murata since the acquisition of the start-up IPDiA in 2016, is a beacon of innovation. Moreover, it has become a home to over 250 dedicated employees working to support the clean room, production line, and all other crucial business functions.

Bolsters Production Facilities

“The components created at our Caen site utilize highly advanced technologies for a wide variety of purposes. From the ubiquitous smartphones that contain hundreds of capacitors to vehicles that incorporate thousands, our products are foundational to modern technology. With the launch of this new line, we are continuing to invest in growing our production facilities and our local workforce,” said Norio Nakajima, President of Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

In addition, Nakajima said, “It represents a significant step forward in our growth in the sector and demonstrates our determination to reinvest in the European electronics industry. Moreover, well supported by Europe through the Chips Act and IPCEI initiatives.”

The Silicon Capacitors manufactured by Murata in this factory will suit wide range of demanding applications. Among them are implantable medical systems, telecommunication infrastructures, and mobile phones. Moreover, the products produced by the newly opened line will primarily target the mobile handset market. Specifically, delivering capacitors with exceptional performance and capacitance values in extremely compact sizes, with thicknesses as low as 50µm.

Murata’s recent pledge to invest €60 million in the Caen site underscores its commitment to growth and innovation over the coming years. In addition, this investment will serve to grow the cleanroom area and enable an increase in production of components for mass markets. 

Leverages on 200mm Wafers

In early 2023, Murata announced it is expanding its Silicon Capacitor manufacturing by creating a new 200mm mass production line in Caen, France. Accordingly, Murata will create more than 100 new jobs in 2023 to 2025. Demanding applications such as implantable medical systems, telecommunication infrastructures, and mobile phones use Murata’s silicon capacitors produced in the factory.

The new line will leverage on 200 mm wafers, focusing on the PICS latest technology, which has dramatically higher performance on electrical characteristic. These products will primarily target the mobile handset market with very high performances and capacitance values in super small sizes with thicknesses as low as 40µm. 

Murata’s new building for this new production line already exists. Thus, new equipment will be integrated in the coming weeks and months. A recruitment program has also started, with a plan to welcome more than 100 new employees during the next three years.

15 October 2024