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Intel tests ACMR etching equipment at 14A node
Friday, December 12, 2025 at 06:29 AM
Intel has reportedly completed testing of etching equipment supplied by ACMR for potential use in its 14A manufacturing node. The equipment is noted to be subject to current U.S. sanctions.
Context
Chipmaker Intel has reportedly tested two wet-etch/cleaning tools from ACM Research this year for its most advanced chipmaking process, 14A, which is slated for an initial launch in 2027. This development occurs despite two ACM units, based in Shanghai and South Korea, having been added to the U.S. Entity List in December 2024 due to concerns over supporting the Chinese government's military and advanced chip efforts.
ACM Research has stated that its U.S. team has successfully sold and delivered multiple tools from its Asian operations to domestic customers, with some meeting performance standards. While Reuters found no evidence that Intel violated U.S. regulations by testing these tools, nor confirmed a final procurement decision, the situation highlights the complex geopolitical landscape impacting semiconductor supply chains and potential regulatory risks for companies like Intel navigating advanced technology development and global sourcing.
Sources (7)
Intel has tested chipmaking tools from firm with sanctioned ...Intel said to test tools from firm with sanctioned China unitIntel test chipproductietools van bedrijf met gesanctioneerde ...Intel has limited customer commitments for latest chip ...How Intel's Nvidia deal could help Intel's next generation of ...[PDF] ACM Research, Inc.Intel will cancel 14A and following nodes if it can't win a major ...
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