Haverhill, MA, January 29, 2003. EPSI (Engineered Pressure Systems, Inc.) was selected by NDK Crystal, Inc. to design and manufacture eight hydrothermal crystal growing systems, and supporting auxiliary equipment for a new plant in Belvidere, IL. EPSI has custom designed the vessels to integrate with NDK's existing synthetic quartz crystals manufacturing operation.
By installing EPSI's crystal growing vessels, NDK will produce the same quality synthetic quartz crystals by 70% of energy compared with current energy. NDK, provides crystal devices to diverse industries ranging from mobile communications and fixed radio communication to office automation, audio-visual, and automotive electronics equipment.
According to Junji Takahashi, Deputy Plant Manager, Sayama Plant of Nihon Dempa Kogyo, Co., Ltd., "Synthetic quartz crystals, known as piezoelectric elements, are the key ingredient when used for frequency control and selection in electronic and optical devices, such as the optical low pass filter used in digital cameras. We forecast an increased demand for quartz crystal devices and predict a lack of raw material. By installing the advanced system, we will be able to meet market demand. NDK chose EPSI to design and manufacture our crystal growing vessels because of their long history and global expertise in pressure vessel engineering."
EPSI's quartz growth equipment is ideal for crystal growers like NDK that provide quartz components for a wide range of high-tech applications, including mobile communications, fixed radio communications, office automation, audiovisual, and automotive electronics equipment. EPSI's hydrothermal crystal growth takes place under constantly controlled temperature and pressure within EPSI's forged pressure vessel. Average cycle time is 35 to 120 days, depending on the size and quality of the crystals required.
EPSI's quartz growth equipment is divided into a lower dissolving section and an upper growing section, and each contains its own temperature control system. During the process, alkaline solution, natural quartz nutrient and seeds are placed in the vessel. While heat raises the pressure, small pieces of the nutrient dissolve slowly in the lower (hotter) section, allowing for the solution to rise by convection to the upper (cooler) section. During this stage, crystallization occurs on the seeds to form large monolithic crystals. The total growth process is microprocessor controlled and may be entirely controlled by a central computer.
Formerly a division of National Forge Company, Engineered Pressure Systems, Inc. is a manufacturer of Hot, Cold & Warm Isostatic Press Systems. Its manufacturing, testing, research, and specialized applications have resulted in unique solutions, developed through individual case studies combined with R&D expertise.
Established in 1948, NDK has steadily worked to develop, manufacture, and supply quality quartz crystal electronic components to its customers. Nihon Dempa Kogyo Co., Ltd. (NDK) is the world's leading manufacturer of quartz crystal electronic components. The Company's crystal units and devices are recognized for their consistent high quality, which has led them to be adopted in an array of electronic devices in industries ranging from communications equipment to automotive electronics and aerospace, including audiovisual and office automation.
For more information, visit www.epsi-highpressure.com
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