Hydrogen generation system for semiconductor manufacture

Description

The National Epitaxy Facility (NEF) at the University of Sheffield is a nationally important supplier of semiconductor materials for research and development in Universities and industry across the UK. A reliable supply of high purity hydrogen is key to the work of the NEF and our other research groups in semiconductor production. Our existing PEM-based hydrogen generation system is approaching end of life and a replacement system is required. Our hydrogen supply operates at 30 bar and a peak mass flow rate of approximately 25kg per day, with an average daily consumption of 12kg per day. Our hydrogen system feeds purifiers that ideally require 99.999% purity to minimise maintenance costs and ensure high purity feed to our reactors. We are looking for a replacement hydrogen generator that can meet our existing demand in the existing footprint, with a reliable, sustainable and cost effective technology. Reliability of supply is a key factor, and hence an exemplary after sales service is a must. Lot 1: A turnkey, fixed price solution is required for a hydrogen generation system that meets the following criteria. The system operates within a built environment at an ambient temperature of 20ºc, within a ventilated steel enclosure with a footprint of 3.6 x 4.8m, max height 2.8 m. If expansion is required the available space is 5.2 x 9 x 3.5m high. Minimum 99.99% Hydrogen purity, 99.999% preferred. 20 micron maximum particle size, 10 micron preferred for purifier input. Post purifier purity for reactor input is 3 micron or less. No sulphur or sulphur compounds. Water Vapor < 5 PPM, -65°C Dewpoint. N2 < 2 ppm. O2 < 1 ppm. All other impurities undetectable Additional information: Market Engagement: We welcome site visits from potential suppliers during the period 6th-24th September. Meetings and site visits must be arranged no later than 17th September. Format: individual, non-confidential meetings, either face-to-face or virtual, or on-site to include a site survey. Contact to arrange meetings: Dr Steve Mason by email: steve.mason@sheffield.ac.uk or telephone 07834 722103. Address for site visits: Centre for Nanoscience and Technology, Broad Lane, Sheffield, S3 7HQ.