Fab 28

Fab 28 is a major semiconductor fabrication facility operated by Intel in Kiryat Gat, Israel. Established in 2008, it has been a cornerstone of Intel's global manufacturing network, producing advanced microprocessors and SoCs using leading-edge process technologies. The fab has played a significant role in the regional economy and the global semiconductor industry, undergoing substantial expansions to maintain technological competitiveness.

Overview

Located in the southern Israeli city of Kiryat Gat, Fab 28 is one of Intel's most advanced manufacturing sites outside the United States. The facility primarily focuses on the high-volume manufacturing of CPUs for client and data center markets, utilizing several generations of Intel's process technology. Its operations are integral to the supply chain for major computer manufacturers like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, as well as supporting cloud computing infrastructure for companies such as AWS and Microsoft Azure. The site represents a massive investment in Israel's high-tech sector and is a critical asset within Intel's IDM 2.0 strategy.

History

Construction of the facility began in the mid-2000s, with the fab officially opening in 2008. An initial investment of billions of dollars was supported by incentives from the Government of Israel and the Israel Innovation Authority. Fab 28 commenced volume production on the 45 nm process, manufacturing chips like those based on the Nehalem microarchitecture. A major expansion was announced in 2014, backed by a significant grant from the Israeli government, to retool the fab for the 22 nm and later the 10 nm nodes. This expansion solidified the plant's role in producing key products such as Intel Core processors and components for the Internet of Things.

Technology and production

Fab 28 has been at the forefront of several Moore's Law technology transitions. It was an early production site for processors using high-κ/metal-gate technology at the 45 nm node. The fab later transitioned to the 22 nm process featuring FinFET transistors, producing chips for the Ivy Bridge and Haswell families. Its most advanced role has been in manufacturing on the 10 nm process, known as Intel 7, producing performance cores for the Alder Lake microarchitecture and Xeon server processors. The facility utilizes extreme ultraviolet lithography and other advanced techniques to create these complex integrated circuits.

Economic and strategic importance

The fab is one of the largest private-sector employers in Israel and a major exporter, significantly contributing to the nation's GDP and balance of trade. Its presence has catalyzed the growth of a local ecosystem of suppliers and R&D centers, including Intel's own development sites in Haifa and Petah Tikva. Strategically, Fab 28 provides Intel with crucial manufacturing capacity and geographic diversity, mitigating supply chain risks. Its output is vital for meeting global demand from partners like Apple, Microsoft, and the United States Department of Defense, ensuring a secure supply of advanced semiconductors.

Environmental impact and sustainability

Intel has implemented several initiatives at Fab 28 to reduce its environmental footprint. The facility has achieved significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption per chip produced, partly through advanced water reclamation and recycling systems. It utilizes renewable energy sources and has invested in energy-efficient manufacturing tools. These efforts align with Intel's global commitments to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions and support the sustainability goals of its customers, including Google and Meta. The fab's operations comply with stringent international standards and local regulations set by the Israel Ministry of Environmental Protection. Category:Intel Category:Semiconductor fabrication plants Category:Buildings and structures in Israel Category:Computer companies of Israel