Manufacturing processes using volatile solvents have to be specially designed to minimize the risk of explosions or fire. Solvents such as acetone or alcohol are used to clean parts, dissolve materials and extract substances. Modutek’s stainless steel stations meet strict safety regulations that reduce the risk of ignition of the solvents or their vapors and they have additional features and interlocks in an integrated approach to operator safety. As a result, the stainless steel stations can be installed safely in both new and existing facilities for solvent processing.
Special Design Measures Ensure Safe Solvent Station Operation
Safe stainless steel solvent station operation depends on specific design measures that reduce the risk of fire or explosion. Modutek’s stations satisfy safety regulations and include design features that improve safety based on extensive experience in wet bench processing. Special safety design measures can include the following:
- Electrical equipment runs on low voltages and weak currents to reduce the risk from sparks.
- Electric wiring satisfies fire protection standards NFPA 70 and 79.
- Overall station design satisfies hazardous location standards and is certified for Class 1, Division 2 environments.
- The manufacturing process is monitored to detect dangerous conditions such as high temperature.
- Liquid solvent waste is collected in carboys for controlled disposal.
- Safety interlocks eliminate unsafe operation and shut down the process for unsafe conditions.
- Automatic lid operation can seal off chemical containers.
- Operators are trained for safe operation.
- Access controls limit equipment operation to trained personnel.
How Stainless Steel Solvent Processing Stations Operate Safely and Reliably
Modutek’s Series SFa and Sa Stainless Steel Stations for solvent processes meet all the safety requirements of the applicable regulations. Made of electropolished stainless steel, the stations satisfy the National Electrical Code Class 1 Division 2 Group D standard for hazardous locations. The baths feature PVC safety shields, N2 head case purge and an auto lid option. They are designed for operator safety and prioritize safe containment and disposal of volatile solvents.
The SFa series station uses a temperature controlled re-circulating bath while the Sa series is constant temperature. The baths have a temperature control precision of plus/minus 1 degree centigrade, a heat-up rate of 2 degrees centigrade per minute and an operating temperature range of 30 to 100 degrees centigrade. Bath heaters are rated from 2 to 6 kW depending on the tank size. With precise temperature control and a fast heating rate, the baths can improve yield and produce high-quality process output.
In addition to the safety features and temperature control characteristics, the baths have multi-sided heating elements, a 360 degree overflow weir, operating interlocks, process control thermocouples and liquid level sensors. The tanks are available in standard sizes from about 8 inches to 24 inches a side. Custom sizes are also available.
Modutek’s Can Provide Solvent Processing Stations to Satisfy Customer Requirements
With 40 years experience in designing wet benches for semiconductor manufacturing, Modutek supplies stations made with high-quality materials designed for safety, ease of use and reliable operation. As a leading wet bench manufacturer, Modutek is constantly innovating to incorporate the latest advancements in its wet process equipment including its solvent processing stations.
Modutek can examine solvent processing needs and recommend stations for specific applications. A complete line of standard baths and the ability to customize as required means the company can build solvent processing stations to meet special customer needs. Modutek builds all its own equipment and designs and writes its own software in-house. As a result, Modutek can give expert guidance on what is required and follow up with complete customer support and service for all its products. For a free quote or consultation to discuss your specific requirements contact Modutek at 866-803-1533 or email modutek@modutek.com.
