4 min. read | Reviewed by NOVAIR Engineering Team | Last updated: May 11, 2026
Executive Summary
Semiconductor manufacturing consumes high volumes of nitrogen during purging, inerting, and soldering processes. Having an on-site nitrogen generation system can reduce operating costs and provide the reliable supply of high-purity nitrogen needed to produce high-quality semiconductors.
Table of contents
- Executive Summary
- Why is nitrogen used in semi-conductor production?
- A nitrogen generator in the production facility can help manage nitrogen costs in several ways:
- There are several nitrogen systems that are commonly used in semiconductor manufacturing:
- What is the benefit of using nitrogen versus air in soldering processes?
- FAQ’s
- Ready to reduce nitrogen costs?
- About NOVAIR
Why is nitrogen used in semi-conductor production?
Nitrogen is used in semiconductor production as a purging gas to remove oxygen and moisture from processing equipment and chambers during the manufacturing process. This is important because oxygen and moisture can cause contamination and degrade the quality of the semiconductor material, leading to lower yields and reduced performance of the final product. Nitrogen is an inert gas that is relatively cheap and readily available, making it a popular choice for purging in the semiconductor industry. By removing oxygen and moisture, nitrogen helps to maintain the clean, dry environment necessary for high-quality semiconductor production.
A nitrogen generator in the production facility can help manage nitrogen costs in several ways:
- Cost-effective: Nitrogen generators produce nitrogen in-house, reducing the need to purchase nitrogen from suppliers and reducing delivery costs.
- Reduced waste: In-house nitrogen generation eliminates the need to dispose of nitrogen gas cylinder waste, reducing costs associated with cylinder disposal.
- Efficient use: Nitrogen generators provide a consistent and efficient supply of nitrogen, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.
- Lower maintenance: Nitrogen generators typically have lower maintenance costs compared to traditional nitrogen supply methods, reducing overall cost of ownership.
- Scalable: Nitrogen generators can be scaled to meet changing production demands, reducing the need to purchase excess nitrogen from suppliers and reducing costs.
There are several nitrogen systems that are commonly used in semiconductor manufacturing:
- Nitrogen Generation Systems: In-house nitrogen generation systems produce nitrogen from compressed air, providing a continuous supply of nitrogen with low impurities.
- Nitrogen Gas Cylinders: Nitrogen gas cylinders provide a portable and convenient source of nitrogen for small scale or temporary use.
- Nitrogen Gas Blenders: Nitrogen gas blenders are used to control the nitrogen/air mix, providing an adjustable and consistent supply of nitrogen for the soldering process.
- Nitrogen Delivery Systems: Nitrogen delivery systems provide a controlled flow of nitrogen to the soldering equipment, ensuring proper atmosphere control.
What is the benefit of using nitrogen versus air in soldering processes?
- Reduced oxidation: Nitrogen creates an inert environment that reduces oxidation of metal surfaces during the soldering process, improving the quality and reliability of the solder joint.
- Increased productivity: Nitrogen can increase the speed of the soldering process, leading to increased productivity.
- Enhanced process control: Nitrogen can help regulate temperature, ensuring consistent and repeatable results.
- Improved aesthetics: Nitrogen can help prevent discoloration of the solder joint, providing a better cosmetic appearance.
FAQ’s
Nitrogen bought in bulk or cylinders has costs per unit that compounds over time with high consumption volumes. There are often hidden delivery surcharges or contracts that lock you in. Generating nitrogen on-site only requires the initial investment in the generator and standard electricity to run.
Semiconductor manufacturing typically requires a purity of
Nitrogen is used to prevent oxidation and improve the surface finish of semiconductors during the bright annealing process.
PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) nitrogen generators are typically used in the semiconductor manufacturing process. PSA technology is used to achieve the high purity levels necessary, for electronics manufacturing. Modular PSA generators are favored due to the ability to add modules as operations expand over time.
If your facility has a consistent nitrogen demand and you are currently managing delivered cylinders or bulk liquid, it is worth looking into for cost savings and reliable nitrogen supply. NOVAIR’s US-based representatives can assess your usage and walk you through the options for your specific environment.
Ready to reduce nitrogen costs?
If your facility is purchasing high volumes of nitrogen to support your semiconductor production, it may be time to consider switching to an on-site nitrogen generator. Speak with a NOVAIR representative to discuss your nitrogen requirements and explore our generator product lines to determine what best fits your operations.
About NOVAIR
Headquartered in North Tonawanda, New York, NOVAIR USA, part of NOVAIR Groupe, is an industry leader in manufacturing on-site nitrogen generators for industrial applications, including electronics manufacturing and more. Our reliable, USA-made solutions are designed for safety and predictable operating costs. We also serve multiple healthcare and industrial sectors with our oxygen generators and medical gas equipment.
Headquartered in France, NOVAIR operates in over 150 countries and has installed thousands of gas generators around the planet, supplying daily life-saving medical oxygen to hundreds of thousands of patients the world over. NOVAIR also provides industrial oxygen and nitrogen that enhances the effectiveness of scores of industries through a broad range of applications and market segments.
Contact us to learn more.
Key Takeaways
- Nitrogen in semiconductor production purges oxygen and moisture, preventing contamination and improving material quality.
- Using a nitrogen generator cuts costs by providing a reliable gas supply, reducing supplier dependency, and minimizing waste.
- Nitrogen enhances soldering by reducing oxidation, increasing productivity, improving control, and providing better aesthetics.
- NOVAIR leads in in-house gas production systems, supplying both medical and industrial gases globally.