Production process

In order to provide the optimal solution for individual application requirements, IST AG offers a variety of technology and material variants throughout the sensor production process.

IST AG has extensive experience in developing customer-specific sensors and adapting them to applications for challenging requirements.

A successful sensor solution is only possible with an in-depth knowledge of a customer’s business, challenges and requirements. In order to identify the sensor solution that fits the application of our customer, we discuss the requirements and specifications extensively with the customer.

Existing sensor or customized solution

The IST AG design process is where it all begins. First a meeting takes place between our engineers and the customer to discuss the specific application requirements. Depending on the complexity of the project the solution can either be an existing sensor or a custom made design. For custom designs, prototypes are developed and thoroughly tested.

Deposition of substrates

sensor production clean room sputtering The first production step is deposition, where sputtering is used in order to cover the substrates with a thin layer over the entire surface. Depending on the type of sensor that is required, different materials, thicknesses and qualities can be chosen for the covering.

Photolithography

sensor production clean room photolithography In this step, the substrates are coated with photosensitive lacquer by a centrifuge. All our sensor structures are sketched on so-called masks: through exposure, light is lead through the mask onto the photoresist. The covered parts are not reached by the light, leaving the coating unexposed. During the subsequent developing of the substrates, the coating on the exposed areas is washed away, the non-exposed area remains on the substrate.

Etching

sensor production clean room etching During the etching process the part of the coating that is not required is removed through etching. Two different processes are used to etch the substrates: ion etching and wet-chemical etching.

Laser trimming

sensor production clean room laser trimming IST AG uses laser trimming or laser calibration as a method of adjusting (trimming) components by laser induced material changes. Thereby the resistance value is increased continuously by decreasing the meander structure until the desired value is achieved.

Screen printing

sensor production clean room screen printing During screen printing, the contact points are strengthened with a conductive paste. This enables a better connection between the contact point and the electrical contacts. Additionally, the substrate is covered with a non-conductive paste, which prevents scratches and damages of the sensor due to mechanical or chemical influences.

Dicing

sensor production dicing While dicing, the substrates are cut into individual strips, so that afterwards wires can be welded on the sensors.

Welding

sensor production welding of wires For the welding process, IST AG offers various possibilities of wire material, lengths and diameters that are welded to the chip. We distinguish between bare and insulated wires.

To enhance the welding point and to protect it from mechanical damage, a paste is applied to the welding area offering an outstanding pull-strength.

Measuring

sensor production measuring During the final electrical measurement, all sensors are checked with a 2-point calibration measurement. According to their accuracy they are sorted into different classes.