Axcelis, Applied Materials in strategic service agreement for Japan

BEVERLY & SANTA CLARA, USA: Axcelis Technologies Inc. and Applied Materials, Inc. have announced a strategic agreement making Applied the exclusive service provider for Axcelis semiconductor processing systems in Japan.

This program will enable Axcelis' customers to utilize Applied's extensive support infrastructure in Japan to optimize the performance and productivity of Axcelis process systems.

"We are pleased to join with Applied Materials, a company widely recognized for its outstanding service capabilities," said Mary Puma, chairman and CEO of Axcelis Technologies. "This agreement will allow Axcelis to assure the highest level of satisfaction for our present and future customers in Japan. It will also enable us to focus on our key strength -- delivering world-class manufacturing technology to the semiconductor industry."

"With expert service teams already in place in virtually every semiconductor fab, Applied is committed to providing Axcelis and its customers with the same world-class service that has gained us the respect and trust of semiconductor manufacturers worldwide," said Manfred Kerschbaum, senior vice president and general manager of Applied Global Services. "Our leading-edge service solutions can easily be expanded to non-Applied tools to simplify manufacturing operations, raise efficiency and reduce waste in the fab. We believe this program can serve as a model for the future: combining both companies' strengths for the benefit of our mutual customers."

Under the agreement, Applied will offer a comprehensive portfolio of service programs for Axcelis ion implantation, rapid thermal processing, curing and cleaning systems in Japan. Using a wide range of engineering and logistics technologies including Applied's ExpertConnect remote diagnostic capability, local and internationally located Applied certified engineers will provide preventive and corrective maintenance, spare parts management, parts cleaning and coating, and analytical services.