What is the silicon wafer reclaim concept?
Used wafers from a customer are sent to KOBE. After removing the unwanted film, the wafers are then polished, cleaned and sent back to the original customer for use as a test wafer. The Precision Reclaim Process™ returns a wafer that is functionally equivalent to a new test wafer except for a slight reduction in thickness. Significant cost savings compared to a new test wafer provides a strong incentive to use reclaim wafers in any test wafer application.

What types of specifications can a reclaim wafer meet?
KOBE guarantees surface metals, light point defects, all geometric characteristics and bulk resistivity.

What types of wafers can be reclaimed?
It is easier to explain what types of wafers cannot be reclaimed with KOBE's patented Precision Reclaim Process™. Wafers with pre-existing deep defects (deeper than 15 microns) such as scratches, cracks, chips and slip lines cannot be reclaimed. All types of metals can be effectively and reliably reclaimed. Multi-layer patterned wafers can also be processed.

How long does the reclaim process take?
Customers usually store their used wafers at KOBE's warehouse and then provide a release shipment schedule. By having a fully integrated high volume factory and efficient process, we can reclaim a sizeable batch of wafers within 7-10 days. The factory operates 24 hours per day 7 days a week.

Are there minimum order sizes?
In order to reclaim wafers efficiently, we ask for a minimum of 500 wafers. Qualification orders are an exception and typically are in the range of 100 wafers. For smaller requirements, we can offer to sell either reclaimed or virgin silicon wafers that we have in stock.

Does KOBE provide wafer manufacturing from other sites?
KOBE's initial strategy was to create the highest quality at the lowest cost. This led to the creation of the largest reclaim facility in North America. From this site in California, we are providing tight quality control, cost effective solutions and rapid turnaround times for customers all over the world. Our parent company, Kobe Steel, is also providing reclaim services from a facility in Japan. As the market dictates, we plan to expand into other regions.