Sumitomo Heavy Industries opened a semiconductor R&D centre in California to advance precision manufacturing, robotics, and US industry partnerships.
International industrial machinery manufacturer Sumitomo Heavy Industries has expanded its presence in the United States by opening a new semiconductor research and development facility in San Jose, California. The move reflects the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing semiconductor and robotics sectors while deepening collaboration with major technology players and academic institutions across the US.
The newly established R&D centre has been set up within the existing cryogenic and vacuum equipment manufacturing operations of Sumitomo Cryogenics of America. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the facility is expected to serve as a strategic hub for advancing semiconductor manufacturing technologies and accelerating innovation in precision engineering systems.
According to the company, the decision to establish the facility in California was driven by the strong growth outlook for the US semiconductor industry as well as rising demand for advanced robotics technologies. Through the new centre, SHI intends to improve its competitiveness in these high-value markets while identifying fresh commercial opportunities tied to next-generation chip manufacturing and automation.
The facility will focus primarily on the development of precision stage systems, advanced motion components, and robotics-related technologies. These systems are considered essential for semiconductor production because they enable ultra-precise positioning and movement during manufacturing processes. Semiconductor fabrication requires nanometre-level accuracy, and precision stages play a critical role in ensuring wafers and other components are aligned correctly during lithography, inspection, and assembly operations.
SHI noted that the research site has been designed to support on-site verification and testing of these advanced technologies. By enabling real-world evaluation and rapid prototyping, the company expects the facility to accelerate the development cycle for new semiconductor manufacturing solutions. The company also plans to collaborate closely with leading semiconductor manufacturers and higher education institutions in the United States to support technological advancement and innovation.
The establishment of the facility comes at a time when the US semiconductor industry is experiencing significant investment growth. Data from the Semiconductor Industry Association indicates that semiconductor companies in the US reinvest approximately 20% of their total annual revenue into research and development activities. This high level of R&D spending highlights the industry’s strong focus on innovation and technology advancement.
Industry forecasts further reinforce the sector’s growth potential. The SIA projects that US semiconductor manufacturing capacity could increase by 203% by 2032, driven by rising global demand for chips, government incentives, and strategic investments in domestic production capabilities. California continues to play a major role in this expansion, with semiconductors remaining the state’s highest-value export category at approximately $11.2 billion.
By launching the San Jose R&D centre, SHI is positioning itself closer to key customers, research ecosystems, and emerging technological developments within the semiconductor industry. The company expects the investment to strengthen its long-term presence in North America while supporting innovation in advanced manufacturing and robotics technologies.
