Hendon Semiconductors, a division of Legend Corporation, has secured a $1.3M grant as part of the Federal Government’s Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) Round 2.
Hendon said in a press release the grant is intended to modernise its semiconductor and thick-film design and fabrication facility through advanced manufacturing technology.
The federal grant will also enable accelerated delivery of improved production efficiency, capability, and capacity outcomes for local Adelaide manufacturers.
With the support of this grant, Hendon Semiconductors will aim to reduce disruption to domestic supply and service and increase design and production capability in hopes to generate a number of new employment and offer critical skills training to existing employees.
Jason Gerard, general manager for Hendon Semiconductors, expressed his excitement at the new opportunity, particularly around the intended modernisation of its semiconductor and thick-film design and fabrication hub.
“I’m passionate about supporting Australian innovation and manufacturing and this grant will help us deliver greatly improved production efficiency, capability and capacity outcomes” Mr Gerard stated.
In particular, Hendon plans to procure and install state-of-the-art equipment including a horizontal diffusion furnace with nitrogen capability, a laser trimming system, two screen printers, two far-infrared belt dryers, and an automated optical inspection machine.
The company said it aims to finish the hub upgrade by March 2024 after extensive installation, process improvements, industry 4.0 capabilities and full customer qualifications are completed.
The Government’s SCRI objectives include working with industry to identify supply options to address vulnerabilities, including those identified in the Sovereign Manufacturing Capability Plan, by incentivising Australian businesses to invest in capabilities through new equipment, technology, skills, and processes.
