Creative Machining Technology (CMT) has been acquired by Illinois Tool Works (ITW), the parent company of Brooks Instrument, on April 18. CMT specializes in providing machining and manufacturing services, including individual part production and end-item manufacturing, kitting, and assembly. They have a strong reputation for their high-precision CNC machining capabilities and expertise in manufacturing ultrahigh-purity components with tight tolerances for applications in semiconductor manufacturing.
As a long-time supplier to Brooks Instrument, CMT’s integration into the company will enhance their in-house expertise for critical machined components and machining capabilities. This will improve their supply chain assurance for producing ultrahigh-purity instruments, according to Brent Best, VP and GM at Brooks’ semiconductor division. By expanding capabilities for quick-turn customer R&D requests, Brooks will be able to create more innovative flow measurement and control solutions.
With the ability to manufacture components with tolerances as tight as 0.0001 inches, CMT will allow Brooks to design and produce complex wetted flow path components more efficiently for their mass flow controllers (MFCs). These MFCs are crucial for gas delivery systems used in semiconductor manufacturing. Additionally, CMT has clean rooms with Class 1,000 and Class 10,000 certifications for handling delicate electronic components in a controlled environment.
The acquisition of CMT is part of Brooks Instrument’s strategic plan to expand their presence in the semiconductor market and position themselves for long-term success. Best expressed excitement about having CMT join Brooks as they focus on continuous improvement, expanding technology offerings, and meeting the needs of their customers. This acquisition follows other recent initiatives by Brooks, such as the launch of the GF120xHT Series mass flow controller for high-temperature environments and the opening of a new manufacturing site in Malaysia to strengthen partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region.
