Rigaku Corporation, a global leader in X-ray analytical technologies and a subsidiary of Rigaku Holdings Corporation (headquartered in Akishima, Tokyo; CEO: Jun Kawakami), has significantly expanded its manufacturing capabilities for semiconductor process control instruments. This includes upgrades to its Takatsuki, Osaka Prefecture plant, as well as a partnership with Nippo Precision Co, Ltd at their sixth facility in Nirasaki, Yamanashi Prefecture.
The growth of AI-driven semiconductor applications has caused a surge in demand for semiconductor manufacturing and inspection equipment. With increasing complexity in semiconductor designs, including thin-profile multi-layered structures, 3D memory, and 3D transistors, precise measurement and evaluation of nanoscale features have become critical.
As part of this expansion, Rigaku has doubled the floor space for assembly and inspection operations. A newly completed facility in Yamanashi enhances production capacity for key components such as X-ray generators and detectors. Overall, the company’s semiconductor process control instrument production is projected to grow by 50% in Q4 FY2025 compared to the same period in FY2024.
Rigaku plans to continue expanding its production by 50% more by 2027, in line with increasing market demand. This investment in manufacturing capacity is expected to drive significant growth in Rigaku’s semiconductor process control equipment sales, aiming for a 20% increase in overall annual sales by the end of FY2025.
Markus Kuhn, General Manager of the Semiconductor Metrology Division, commented:
“Expanding our production capacity is a key milestone in Rigaku’s global strategy. Our technology is essential for the precision measurements needed for next-gen devices like 3D-NAND and GAA transistors. Our systems are trusted worldwide for their reliability and accuracy. This expansion enables us to improve delivery times and support our customers’ cutting-edge development processes, strengthening our competitive advantage in the global market.”
Founded in 1951, Rigaku is dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of society, particularly in the fields of X-ray and thermal analysis. With a presence in over 90 countries and around 2,000 employees, Rigaku serves a wide range of industries and research institutes. The company has a strong international footprint, with approximately 70% of its sales coming from overseas and a dominant market share in Japan. Rigaku continues to innovate across diverse sectors, including semiconductors, electronics, batteries, environmental science, energy, life sciences.
