TSMC to Expand Production with New Facilities Across Taiwan in April
In response to the high demand for AI chips, TSMC has once
again initiated a large-scale expansion in northern, central, and southern
Taiwan. This expansion includes the first tool-in and the construction of
2-nanometer fabs and advanced packaging plants.
Industry sources cited by the Liberty Time News have
suggested that investing in eight to ten facilities may be necessary for the
next-generation 1-nanometer technology in Taiwan.
Hot Demand for AI Chips Sparks Ongoing Installation and
Production
As per the report citing industry sources, last year, TSMC’s
pace of building factories in Taiwan slowed down due to the downturn in the
semiconductor industry. However, with the industry’s recovery this year and the
high demand for AI chips, expansion efforts in the north, central, and southern
regions have become more active.
In April, first tool-in will be commenced at the Baoshan
2-nanometer plant (Fab 20) in the Hsinchu Science Park. Additionally, the
2-nanometer plant (Fab 22) in Kaohsiung is under construction, with plans for a
third plant underway. TSMC’s 2-nanometer process is scheduled for mass
production in 2025.
AI chips, emphasizing computational power, universally adopt
advanced processes. The surge in demand for AI chips is driving the need for
advanced packaging technologies like CoWoS.
Currently facing overwhelming demand, TSMC is expanding its
advanced packaging facilities in Zhunan, Central and Southern Taiwan Science
Park, with plans to start tool-in and join production lines this year. The
advanced packaging facility in Chiayi is also commencing construction this
year.
Generation of One-Nanometer Fabrication Plants: 8-10
Facilities Needed
According to the report from Liberty Time News citing
sources, Intel’s construction of fab typically takes about five to six years.
On the other hand, TSMC’s construction and first tool-in in Taiwan are
estimated to be completed within two years.
With a monthly installation capacity of 200 units per month
for a two-nanometer plant, TSMC reportedly plans to advance to 1.4-nanometer
and 1-nanometer advanced processes after the two-nanometer.
