University of Oregon, Knight Center Cleanroom Tool Installations

The University of Oregon contracted Fortis to install five $1.2M wafer etching tools and the associated support equipment for its wafer-manufacturing R&D program. These tools allow scientists and engineers to build exceptionally tiny devices such as microchips and sensors, using materials that are smaller than human hair. Each installation required significant MEP upgrades and the addition of gas cabinets and gas-leak detection systems while maintaining normal day-to-day operations within the cleanroom. Because all five tools were delivered simultaneously while the cleanroom was actively in use, space was tight, and carrying out each installation required a complex coordination effort among Fortis, the University, end users, and trade partners.