You are viewing B H S

 Singapore

AMHS Overhead Rail System Decommission and Installation for a Semiconductor Fab

AMHS Overhead Rail System Decommission and Installation for a Semiconductor Fab

Categories

Introduction

When a semiconductor fabrication facility upgrades its Automated Material Handling System, the work on the ground is seldom straightforward. The existing overhead rail infrastructure  must be dismantled without disrupting the production environment below. The new system  must be installed to the AMHS supplier’s specifications. And all of this takes place inside a live cleanroom where the consequences of contamination or structural interference are immediate and expensive

When a leading AMHS supplier was appointed to supply a new overhead rail system for a leading semiconductor manufacturer, B H S was commissioned to manage the full scope — decommissioning the existing system and installing the new AMHS system. This case study describes how that work was planned and executed, and why the AMHS supplier’s choice of installation partner is as important as the system itself.

The Customer’s Challenge

An overhead rail AMHS is not a peripheral system. It is the infrastructure that moves wafers between tools across the fab — the transport network that keeps production running.

  • The existing system has to come down without damaging what is below it. An overhead rail system sits above active production tools and cleanroom infrastructure. Dismantling it requires controlled sequencing — rail sections, carriers, stockers, and support structures removed in the right order, without dropping debris into the cleanroom, without creating vibration that affects adjacent tools.
  • The new system must be installed to the AMHS supplier's specifications. The overhead rail system is a precision installation — rail alignment, levelling, carrier clearances, and load port connections: all must meet the supplier's technical requirements before the system can be commissioned and handed over.
  • The cleanroom environment cannot be compromised throughout. Both the decommissioning and installation takes place inside a live cleanroom. Cleanroom protocols apply from the first day of dismantling to the last day of installation
  • The AMHS supplier needs a partner, not just a crew. The AMHS supplier's engineers know the system. They need an installation partner who understands the cleanroom environment, can work to their specifications without constant supervision, and can manage the sequencing of a complex installation across a live fab independently.

The B H S Solution

Decommissioning the Existing Overhead Rail System

B H S planned the dismantling sequence before any work began. The existing overhead rail system was mapped against the fab layout and the production schedule. The dismantling sequence was designed to minimise the operational footprint of the work at each stage.

Cleanroom protocols were applied throughout. Materials were handled, packaged, and removed from the cleanroom in a way that prevented contamination. Each section of the existing system was dismantled in the planned sequence, confirmed clear, and prepared for the new installation.

Installation of the New Overhead Rail System

  • Rail installation and alignment. The overhead rail sections were installed and aligned to the tolerances the AMHS supplier's system requirements. Rail alignment determines the smooth operations of the wafer transportation, reducing any vibration along its travel path of the carriers — deviation from specification affects the system's ability to navigate the fab correctly.
  • Support structure installation. The rail support structures were installed and secured according to the structural requirements of the new system.
  • Levelling. Rail sections were levelled across the full span of the installation. Levelling accuracy at this stage is a prerequisite for the AMHS supplier's commissioning process.
  • Load port connections. The connections between the overhead rail system and the load ports at each tool position were installed and confirmed to the required clearances.
  • Coordination with the AMHS supplier's engineers. B H S installation teams worked in direct coordination with the AMHS supplier's engineers throughout. The  Installation scope was B H S's responsibility. The commissioning and system qualification were the AMHS supplier's.

Execution

The decommissioning and installation were executed in phases, coordinated with the fab’s operational schedule. Each phase was planned to minimise disruption to the production environment while maintaining the momentum of the installation programme.

Results and Impact

  • Existing system decommissioned without disruption to the cleanroom environment. The overhead rail infrastructure was removed in the planned sequence, with no contamination events and no damage to the production tools or cleanroom infrastructure below.
  • New AMHS system installed to specification. Rail alignment, levelling, and load port connections were completed to the tolerances the AMHS supplier's commissioning process required. The system was handed over ready for the AMHS supplier's engineers to begin qualification.
  • Single installation partner for the full scope. The AMHS supplier had one party responsible for both the decommissioning of the old system and the installation of the new one.

Why B H S Stands Out

AMHS suppliers win the contract from the fab, then turn to BHS to deliver the installation. The mechanical scope demands a specialist capability that suppliers simply do not carry in-house: working inside a live cleanroom, handling overhead rail infrastructure, and coordinating seamlessly with the fab’s facilities team.

That arrangement holds whichever supplier is awarded the contract. The supplier brings the system. BHS installs it.

Decommissioning sets B H S further apart. Many companies can install a new system, but very few have the experience and protocols to dismantle an existing overhead rail system inside a live cleanroom without introducing the contamination and vibration risks that poorly managed decommissioning creates. It is this depth of experience that makes BHS the installation partner of choice, and it is why suppliers return to B H S project after project.

Broader Applications

  • AMHS suppliers commission B H S as their  installation partner for overhead rail systems, stockers, and associated AMHS infrastructure at customer fabs across Asia and beyond.
  • Fabrication facilities managing AMHS upgrades commission B H S directly to manage the transition — decommissioning the existing system and installing the replacement.
  • New fab build-outs requiring AMHS infrastructure commission B H S alongside the AMHS supplier to execute the physical installation as the facility is completed.

Conclusion

An AMHS overhead rail system is not general construction. It is precision infrastructure installed inside a semiconductor cleanroom, above active production tools, to tolerances that determine whether the system can be commissioned and used.

B H S managed the full scope of this transition — decommissioning the existing overhead rail system and installing the replacement — as a single coordinated operation, with one point of accountability throughout.

Contact us to discuss how B H S can support your next AMHS installation or upgrade project.

Sources and Further Reading

Industry standards and regulatory references relevant to this case study:

Scroll to Top

Select region:

Singapore

English

Malaysia

English

United States

English

Netherlands

English

Taiwan

English

India

English

China

English
中文
Facebook Linkedin Envelope

What our customers say.

“

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to your Move-IT team leader and planner and the team for their outstanding support during our move-in activities. Their dedication and meticulous care in handling the tools and ensuring the surrounding environment was maintained to the highest standards have not gone unnoticed. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail have been exemplary. We truly appreciate the effort and professionalism they have demonstrated throughout this process.

Thank you once again for team unwavering support and dedication.”

Senior Supplier Quality Manager

A leading global photomask and optical materials manufacturer

What our customers say.

“

“From July 2021 to July 2023, B H S has executed a total of 47 tool and machine movements, transporting crucial equipment to various fabs in Singapore.

Throughout this period, B H S has consistently demonstrated their professionalism, expertise, and dedication to ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of our valuable assets. What truly sets them apart is their remarkable track record of achieving Zero Damage in every single movement.

Their attention to detail, careful planning, and meticulous execution have been instrumental in safeguarding our equipment during transit. We have complete confidence in their ability to handle delicate and sensitive cargo, knowing that they prioritize the utmost care and precision in their operations.

Not only did B H S successfully handle numerous exports and imports, but they also went above and beyond to accommodate our specific requirements. Their team seamlessly coordinated with multiple fabs, ensuring timely deliveries and smooth logistics processes. Their commitment to customer satisfaction was evident throughout our engagement.

We extend our deepest gratitude to B H S for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to excellence. Their professionalism, reliability, and flawless execution have contributed significantly to the success of our operations. We highly recommend B H S to any organization seeking top-notch logistics services, particularly in the tool and machine movement space.

Thank you once again to the entire B H S team for their remarkable effort and for consistently delivering exceptional results.”

Manager Airfreight Import Singapore

Global leading transport and logistics company offering global transport services by road, air, sea and train.

What our customers say.

“

“It has been our great pleasure to work with B H S Kinetic Pte Ltd for their exceptional rigging support and services at our new fabrication plant.

They have exhibited a high level of support, customer care and innovation in their approach. We have found them to be highly ethical, committed and they have proven their professional qualiy and services.

We would have no reservations to recommend B H S Kinetic Pte Ltd to anyone who will require their expertise.

We wish them the best of luck and keep up the excellent work.”

Project Manager

Wafer manufacturing facility in Singapore

What our customers say.

“

“It has been our great pleasure to work with B H S on our Fab transport and rigging project, where we experienced an extremely high level of customer care, commitment and understanding of their duties.

We have found them to be highly professional in their work. They have also proven their consistent excellence in skills and dedication with regards to handling our equipment, including the highly sensitive photolithography systems.”

Division Director

Major Asian company which designs, manufactures, and markets integrated circuits (ICs) and related electronic products

What our customers say.

“

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the B H S mover and planner team for their outstanding support in the recent hoisting job for the tools ad-hoc requests.

Your systematic, safety-conscious, and professional approach ensured that all tools were hoisted and docked on time, enabling us to proceed with our critical projects without delay. Your swift response and deep understanding of our tool move-in requirements were truly commendable.

Thank you once again for your dedication and excellent work.”

Systems Engineer

A leading global semiconductor equipment manufacturer

What our staff say.

“I am proud to be part of a company with good management.

Over the years, I have seen the company continue to develop with positive prospects, which has given me confidence in its direction.

I believe B H S offers a good future for those who grow with the company.”

JUZALLI BIN ALI

LORRY DRIVER

What our staff say.

“I never expected to stay this long in one company, but I have. What has mattered most to me is the strong friendships within the operations team and feeling recognised for the work we do.

Over the years, I have seen the company grow successfully, and the way people work together has strengthened.

There is a strong sense of independence in the job, but also unity within the team.”

NORUL NORALFIAN

PRIME MOVER DRIVER

What our staff say.

“One of my proudest moments as a prime mover driver was being trusted to handle high-value jobs, including transporting Rolls-Royce aircraft engines to the airside and supporting aircraft and helicopter movements for airshows, including in Sentosa.

What has kept me here is the strong support from management, good working colleagues, and teamwork on the ground. Over the years, the company has introduced new policies and systems that have helped operations run more smoothly.

Teamwork and clear communication between colleagues have been important in keeping operations running well and avoiding misunderstandings.”

MOHAMED FIRMAN BIN MOHAMED MOTALI

PRIME MOVER DRIVER

What our staff say.

“When I first joined B H S, it was a small company. Over the years, it has grown into a much larger organisation, and I feel confident that it will continue to improve.

What has kept me here is the balance between clear procedures and systems, and the human touch in how people work together.”

YU KAK KHIANG

FLOATER DRIVER

What our staff say.

“Seeing how the company has grown over the years is something I am proud of. I joined B H S when there were fewer than 15 lorries, and today the fleet has grown significantly.

After more than 13 years here, knowing my job well and working alongside colleagues I am comfortable with has kept me going through different phases of the company’s journey.

Working by the rules and focusing on doing the job safely has made it possible to build a long career here, just like those who came before me.”

NOOR AZMAN BIN ZAHID

PRIME MOVER DRIVER

What our staff say.

“What stood out to me in my first few months at B H S was the collaborative culture. People are genuinely approachable and willing to help, even across teams. The work is fast-paced, but there is also trust and autonomy. Clear onboarding, supportive colleagues, and managers who check in regularly helped me settle in quickly. It is a professional environment where you are encouraged to learn fast and take ownership early.”

Wang Ziyu (Elva)

Finance executive

What our staff say.

“What makes me most proud is having been part of the silicon wafer industry during an extraordinary decade of growth and development. Although each phase has come with different challenges, the company has remained stable, which is a key reason I’ve stayed until now. The company’s steady direction over the years has given me the confidence to continue growing with B H S. Building strong installation skills and understanding teammates’ working styles have made collaboration much more effective over time.”

Hsu Jui Chi (Ricky)

Engineer

What our staff say.

“My role at B H S has expanded over time. In addition to my responsibilities within the EHS function, I now also support dormitory management and daily operations. With strong support from my team and management, along with hands-on experience and continuous learning, I have grown in confidence. It has been rewarding to be part of a company that takes safety, employee wellbeing, and continuous improvement seriously.”

Islam Aminul

EHS & Dormitory Coordinator

What our staff say.

“Over the years, improvements in warehouse processes, clearer responsibilities, and better communication have made day-to-day operations more efficient. Working in a strong team, solving daily challenges, and having opportunities to learn and take responsibility have kept me engaged and motivated.

The way teams work together has become more coordinated, which helps work run more smoothly. Today, my experience is often relied on when ideas are still taking shape, and I am asked to help think through and refine them.

We work with sensitive semiconductor and advanced equipment, so precision, reliability, and safety matter in everything we do.”

Bismezawati Bte Yunus

Warehouse Team Leader

What our staff say.

“Since joining B H S, my role has grown to include handling more regular accounts, which has come with greater responsibility and accountability. Gaining deeper knowledge of procedures, requirements, and customer expectations has helped me become more confident in my work. The flexible working environment and the support from management in resolving job challenges are what keep me here as the company continues to grow.”

Vanessa Gan

Customer Service Officer