Saint-Gobain High Purity Systems
Saint-Gobain High Purity Systems

Microelectronics and George Fisher, Inc. Combine Forces

06 December 2003


Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Microelectronics Business and George Fisher, Inc. Combine Forces to Offer The New FuseBond™ System for Semiconductor Applications


GARDEN GROVE, CA - July 14, 2003 - Responding to industry needs for an improved fusion technology for joining piping systems, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Microelectronics Business has entered into an agreement with George Fisher, Inc. to provide the PFA FuseBondT System. The new system combines Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Furon© PFA piping with George Fisher's IR PlusT (Infrared) Joining Technology to provide the industry with a weldable PFA piping and fusion package from one source. Effective Sept. 1, 2003, George Fisher, Inc. will be responsible for sales and marketing responsibilities for the Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics PFA FuseBond products packaged with IR Plus fusion technology.

The PFA FuseBond System features repeatable high-strength PFA welds, low weld bead profile, and documentation of all welding parameters. Ideally suited for high purity chemical and abrasive slurry applications in the semiconductor market, the PFA FuseBond System is offered in pipe, fittings, and a complete line of manual and pneumatically actuated valves in sizes from 1/4-inch through 2-inch. Fittings include alignment marks at 45 degree angles for perfect alignment.

"This sales and marketing alliance affords the industry a new choice by providing our customers with a PFA weldable system solution for high-purity fluid handling applications," said Greg Sallee, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Microelectronics Sales and Marketing Manager. "The new PFA FuseBond System addresses common industry problems of high variability in weld strength and appearance by providing customers with a reliable system that yields repeatable welds that are traceable."

The FuseBond System incorporates George Fisher's IR Plus fusion joining technology, which uses IR radiant heat to fuse the pipe and fitting together. This technology prevents the pipe from touching the heating surface, resulting in a purer, non-contaminated end-product and smaller uniform weld bead. The system incorporates a computerized program which directs the operator at each step of the joining process, including facing, heating, time, temperature, cleaning, and joining distance, minimizing the chance of error and providing greater repeatability. The system also provides a written document of all welding parameters.

Offered with the new FuseBond package is George Fisher's nationally accredited fusion training program. This comprehensive program includes hands on fusion training and certification, and theoretical and practical training in IR weld inspection.

Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics is the world's leading producer of high-performance engineered polymer products. With 50 locations in 17 countries the company is positioned to provide innovative products and services to a global customer base.

The Microelectronic Business supplies a complete line of semiconductor grade fluid handling products. Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics provides customer's with innovative solutions utilizing a complete product line of pumps, valves, fittings, integrated manifolds and high-purity tubing. For further information regarding SGPPL products access their web site at www.plastics.saint-gobain.com

The parent company, Compagnie de Saint-Gobain, is one of the top 100 industrial corporations in the world. Founded in 1665, the company is a leading producer of flat glass, glass containers, insulation, reinforcements, building materials, abrasives, industrial ceramics and piping.

Furon©, FuseBondT, IR PlusT are registered trademarks