Plasma Control Technologies

The investment in development over the past years once again paid off for Plasma Control Technologies in 2016. Buoyed by its high-end solutions for the semiconductor market, PCT grew continually in every consecutive quarter and, with sales up 22.9% for the year, posted its fourth record year in succession. The segment also improved its efficiency and flexibility. This not only helped it deal optimally with the strong demand but, together with the high sales, PCT also boosted its profitability at gross margin level, leading to an EBITDA margin of 22.5%.

Growth: Investment proves its worth

As more and more manufacturers of mobile devices are deploying 3D memory chips in their products, the equipping of plants for the fabrication of the latest-generation, 3D-NAND memory chips gained additional momentum, particularly from the second quarter onward: Capitalizing on its investment in absolutely reliable, fast and highly precise impedance-matching networks, PCT vigorously expanded its sales in the semiconductor market with growth of 35% from the prior year. A big driving force in the semiconductor industry is the Chinese market, as government programs ensure continuous investment and corresponding support for local chip fabrication. PCT deepened the collaboration with existing customers and cultivated new contacts in 2016 to position itself for future projects.

Expansion of technology leadership

The manufacturing processes for 3D memory chips demand progressively more control modules, and more powerful ones. Speed and precision are key criteria. Against this backdrop, in 2016 PCT accelerated the further development and improvement of its high-end products. With the cito Plus radio frequency (RF) generator, a solution was market-readied that guarantees maximum stability even at top dynamic loads and will go into serial production in 2017. The next step in focus for PCT is the development of an innovative RF control system. It completes the whole RF power portfolio by bringing together perfectly coordinated software and hardware of generators and impedance matching networks. Featuring control software with cutting-edge sensor and measurement technology, the new system will support semiconductor chip manufacturers in making their production processes more reliable and efficient. Another important theme in this industry is the shortening of product development times. PCT therefore introduced new instruments and methods for efficient collaboration between the development departments and with key accounts, and strengthened its organization.

New and existing applications ensure great potential

PCT combines outstanding customer relationships, comprehensive mastery of RF power and a portfolio of innovative high-end products that is fully geared to the needs of existing and new customers. PCT as a strategic partner to customers for the fabrication of 3D data-storage technologies, new manufacturing processes for high-growth IoT applications, and the latest displays, is thus superbly positioned for continuing significant growth in the future. In 2017 the top growth driver for PCT will remain the demand for the newest generation of memory chips (3D-NAND). Increasingly, new applications such as the Internet of Things, virtual reality and, most recently, digitalization in automobile production will form the basis for additional growth.