[Edaily Reporter Shin Ha-yeon ] On the 8th, Yuanta Securities Korea projected that #ISTE Co.,Ltd.’s earnings improvement would gain momentum following its first order for FOUP cleaners used in SamsungElectronics’ HBM production. The firm analyzed that investments in back-end processes driven by the expansion of HBM and hybrid bonding, along with capital expenditures by memory manufacturers, will serve as growth drivers in the medium to long term.

Kwon Myung-jun, an analyst at Yuanta Securities Korea, stated, “There are three factors expected to drive earnings improvement, centered on FOUP cleaners,” citing “expansion of the customer base, increased demand for back-end processes, and expanded investment by domestic memory IDM companies.”

Analyst Kwon explained, “In May, we began collaborating with SamsungElectronics on FOUP cleaner equipment to be used in HBM and next-generation packaging processes, and in June, we secured an initial order from SamsungElectronics for HBM-dedicated FOUP cleaners.” He added, “As this is the first model in Korea to apply vacuum technology—offering improved cleaning performance and drying efficiency compared to existing models—we expect it to be preferred over competitors’ products.”

He continued, “While FOUP Cleaners were previously used mainly in front-end processes, their adoption in back-end processes is expanding due to the recent advancement of packaging processes,” explaining, “Demand is expected to grow alongside the expansion of the HBM and hybrid bonding markets.” He also noted, “As SamsungElectronics and SK hynix are scheduled to continue investing in Pyeongtaek and Yongin, we expect related orders to follow.”

He identified PECVD equipment as a new growth driver. Analyst Kwon stated, “PECVD is equipment used to form insulating and protective layers in semiconductor processes, and it is expected to be highly utilized in next-generation packaging processes such as HBM and hybrid bonding.” He continued, “The SiCN-PECVD equipment currently under development by the company is designed to suppress charge migration in copper wiring, thereby reducing signal delay and improving power efficiency.”

He assessed, “We plan to deliver the SiRiUS II (twin-type)—which features improved productivity and stability—to a client as a demonstration unit within this year and verify its applicability based on that,” adding, “If successful, we expect to transition into a process equipment company.” He also noted, “We are also pursuing new business ventures, including green hydrogen production systems and EPC and maintenance services for hydrogen refueling stations.”