Edwards, a supplier of vacuum and abatement services and solutions to the semiconductor industry, is establishing a new Service Technology Centre (STC) in Blanchardstown, Dublin to support the semiconductor manufacturing industry in Ireland.
The new centre and associated field service operations are expected to employ up to 120 people across activities such as technology, engineering and support. The development represents an investment in the region of $7.5 million.
Semiconductor manufacturing can support developments in the healthcare sector including in medical devices.
Troy Metcalf, president, Edwards Semiconductor Service, said: “This is an exciting development for Edwards and for our customers. Our new Dublin site will become a flagship facility in our global network of STCs, utilising advanced automation and data analysis to support the safe, productive and environmentally sustainable manufacturing of semiconductors in Ireland and across Europe. The increased utilisation of automation and lean manufacturing processes will contribute to improved safety standards, support greater operational excellence, and promote our strategy to attract a more diverse workforce into Edwards and the wider engineering and semiconductor sectors.
“On behalf of Edwards, I would like to extend our thanks to IDA Ireland for the valuable support they have provided us in this exciting new venture.”
Edwards’ new 4,000m2 STC will use advanced automation and data solutions to disassemble, clean, inspect, repair, replace and reassemble vacuum pumps and abatement equipment. The STC is ultimately a remanufacturing operation designed to recycle used products and deliver them back to customers to full specification – all with minimum impact to the environment. Water consumption is minimised through environmentally efficient wastewater treatment and LED lighting will be used to minimise the factory’s carbon footprint.
Edwards is supported by IDA Ireland through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
The tánaiste and minister for enterprise, trade and employment, Leo Varadkar TD, said: “I’m pleased Edwards have chosen Blanchardstown for their new flagship facility, creating 120 new jobs for the area. Blanchardstown has the talent and connectivity to make it an excellent location for any company to invest in and I wish Edwards the very best as they grow their operations here.”
