Vacuum engineering company Edwards is to set up a new service technology centre in Blanchardstown in Dublin to support the semiconductor manufacturing industry in Ireland.
The centre will employ up to 120 people, and it represents an investment of about $7.5m from the company.
Semiconductor manufacturing is essential to supporting developments in the technology, electronics, transport, scientific and healthcare sectors - all of which have been classed as critical industries during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Edwards supplies vacuum and abatement technology, along with the equipment and services, which are necessary to support the efficient and environmentally sustainable production of semiconductors.
The company said its new centre in Blanchardstown will use advanced automation and data solutions to disassemble, clean, inspect, repair, replace and reassemble vacuum pumps and abatement equipment.
The new facility will include warehousing facilities, factory areas, meeting rooms, and a dedicated training centre to cater to the practical and theoretical training needs of both Edwards employees and those of its customers.
Edwards' investment here is being supported by IDA Ireland.
Troy Metcalf, President of Edwards Semiconductor Service, said the company's new Dublin site will become a flagship facility in its global network of service technology centres.
He said it will use 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," he added.
Martin Shanahan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said that the investment of $7.5m and creation of 120 jobs by a global leader in this highly specialised area demonstrates a huge vote of confidence in Ireland.
