#South Korea #Seoul #Semiconductor #SK Keyfoundry #SiC MOSFET

SK keyfoundry's Breakthrough in SiC Technology

SK keyfoundry, a pure-play foundry operating on an 8-inch wafer technology based in Korea, has made impressive strides in the semiconductor landscape. The company recently unveiled its newly developed SiC (Silicon Carbide) Planar MOSFET process platform. This advancement positions SK keyfoundry as a serious contender in the next-generation power semiconductor market, which is expected to see substantial growth in the coming years.

Wide Voltage Range

The SiC Planar MOSFET platform boasts a remarkable voltage capability ranging from 450V to 2300V. This extensive range not only enhances the operational flexibility of applications but also demonstrates exceptional reliability and stability, particularly in high-voltage environments. The platform's robust design is a significant advantage in sectors such as automotive, telecommunications, and renewable energy, where high-performance semiconductors are critical.

Enhanced Production Efficiency

Through meticulous optimization of its development processes, SK keyfoundry has achieved a yield exceeding 90%. This impressive figure indicates heightened productivity and efficiency. The platform also includes a unique feature known as the “customized process support service.” This service grants clients the ability to finely tune the electrical characteristics and specifications of the MOSFETs to meet specific operational requirements, a move that sets SK keyfoundry apart from its competitors.

Securing New Business

In conjunction with the establishment of this new process platform, SK keyfoundry announced it has secured a contract for the development of a 1200V SiC MOSFET from a new client specializing in SiC technology. This partnership is particularly noteworthy as the developed product will be integrated into various industrial applications, enhancing thermal management and energy efficiency.

Prototype evaluation and reliability testing for this new high-voltage product is slated to begin soon, with expectations to transition into mass production in the first half of 2027. This transition marks a significant milestone that underscores SK keyfoundry's commitment to its new direction in the SiC semiconductor business.

Collaborative Progress

This milestone in the SiC Planar MOSFET journey also represents the fruits of a strategic integration of skills and knowledge between SK keyfoundry and its recent acquisition of SK powertech, a company known for its expertise in silicon carbide technologies. The securing of an actual customer order is a validation of the platform's readiness for commercialization, with capabilities that extend beyond mere technical evaluations to actual market application.

Leadership in the Semiconductor Market

According to Derek D. Lee, CEO of SK keyfoundry, the development of the SiC Planar MOSFET process platform showcases the company’s independent technological advancements. He emphasizes that their unique processes, noted for high yield and reliability, are key to meeting the dynamic needs of both domestic and global markets. SK keyfoundry aims to continuously expand its portfolio of high-voltage semiconductor solutions to stay ahead in the fast-evolving semiconductor marketplace.

About SK keyfoundry

Headquartered in Korea, SK keyfoundry specializes in providing Analog and Mixed-Signal foundry services for a wide variety of applications, including consumer electronics, telecom, computing, automotive, and industrial uses. With a diverse range of technology portfolios and adaptable process nodes, SK keyfoundry is poised to address the ever-changing demands of semiconductor companies around the world. For more information, visit SK keyfoundry’s website.