TSMC resumed Apple chip manufacturing, two days after Taiwan earthquake
There are many problems that could delay iPhone production, but earthquakes won’t be one of them, at least in Taiwan. Following the seismic events in Taiwan in the early hours of Wednesday, it was reported that iPhone chip maker TSMC suffered damage at several of its manufacturing plants.
Just two days later it was confirmed that activities have returned to normal, largely in the earthquake-resistant buildings in which they operateaccording to a TrendForce publication.
TSMC regains chip manufacturing pace after Taiwan earthquake
Due to the precision of the production of advanced chips, there was concern that significant damage had occurred to the manufacturing equipment for these components, which could cause an interruption in the supply chain of Apple products expected in 2024. However, it appears that the impact was limited.
TrendForce claims that although TSMC factories suffered damage, the advanced construction methods used limited this damage. Because They have world-class seismic mitigation measures capable of reducing seismic impacts by 1 to 2 levels.
…The capacity utilization rates of mature processing plants (on average between 50% and 80%) meant that losses were recovered quickly after operations resumed, resulting in only minor impacts on the capacity.
These measures were taken after the 1999 earthquake. Since then, TSMC has applied a new development in disaster preparedness. They implemented seismic management measures to reduce risks, in addition to subsequent thorough inspections and the installation of technologies to reduce equipment vibrations.
Pre-production of 2nm chips for iPhone 17 Pro must be reviewed
Apple’s current A and M series chips are manufactured by TSMC. This is happening as part of an increase in production precisely to prepare for upcoming product launches, including the new iPad Pro and iPad Air.
Although they can resume normal operations for the moment, these events could delay the release of the iPhone 17. The most serious damage appears to have taken place at the factory known as Fab 12, which carries out the pre -production of 2nm chips which should be used in iPhone 17 Pro models.
Only Fab 12 suffered water damage to equipment due to broken pipes, mainly affecting the 2nm process, which is not yet in mass production. This is expected to have a short-term impact on operations, which may require the acquisition of new equipment, thereby slightly increasing capital expenditures.
