New autoclaves boost crystal supply
A NDK product story
Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Jan 30, 2004
NDK Crystal has successfully begun operation of its new autoclaves.
NDK Crystal has successfully begun operation of its new autoclaves.
Based on the latest technology and materials, the 75t, 15.2m-tall, 1.1m-diameter autoclaves are the most advanced in the world.
The highest quality synthetic quartz crystals are being grown for use in crystal frequency control devices and optical applications.
The crystal growing process starts with Lasca, which is natural quartz mined in Brazil.
The Lasca is processed and loaded into the autoclave.
Seeds and an alkaline solution are added, and the vessel is sealed.
(The lids for the top of the vessel weigh 5t each, and the clamps that hold the lids in place also weigh 5t).
The temperature inside the vessel is raised to 300-400C, the pressure inside reaches around 2kbar, and convection occurs.
After 6-10 weeks, depending on the type of crystals being produced, the autoclave is opened and the bars of synthetic quartz crystal, which have formed around the seeds, are removed.
The operation of these autoclaves marks a milestone for NDK Crystal, which in September 2003 moved into its new facility in Belvidere, Illinois USA.
This new facility currently houses eight of these massive vessels.
Aside from the manufacturing side the facility also is home to NDK America, where the sales operation, general offices and warehousing is located for the America's.
"I am very proud of the effort put forth by our employees and our vendors enabling us to begin the production of synthetic quartz by NDK for the first time someplace other than Japan.
The production will help take pressure off some of the shortages being experienced in the market", said Mike Walczak, President NDK Crystal.
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