The Compound Semiconductor Facility for IQE

PROJECT OVERVIEW

IQE, the leading supplier of advanced wafer products and material solutions to the semiconductor industry, planned a £100million investment to create a state-of-the-art semiconductor facility over the next ten years. The works were undertaken on the old LG site in Newport, which had stood redundant for twenty years. The new compound semiconductor wafer foundry is set up at the site as part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to creating the world’s first ‘semiconductor cluster.’

We were first engaged by the architects Atkins, who was looking for a system that could be installed to expeditated programme but still achieve the GMP standards, including ISO 4 to ISO 7 cleanrooms. Atkins saw the Norwood Mediline partition 60min fire rated system as the perfect solution, allowing the build to be prefabricated and modulated, however still giving their second fix subcontractors full access to the partition void, which included gases and electrical works. We worked closely with Atkins, developing a design that could be installed quickly but maintained a high quality and specification. 

During the construction phase, we worked closely with the appointed principal contractors, CMB Engineering. The project was delivered on time and recognised in Wales by winning the Constructing Excellence awards. Norwood’s relationship with CMB Engineering and Atkins has continued to grow, securing several future projects with the team.

As part of our scope, we designed, manufactures and installed our Medline solid and glazed partitions, walk on ceiling and fire rated single and double doors.