Industry revenue for the global semiconductor market is projected to grow substantially over the next decade, driven by increasing demand for artificial intelligence, automotive electronics, cloud computing, and consumer devices. Global efforts to strengthen
domestic semiconductor production and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains have accelerated the development of new manufacturing capacity in the United States. This is good news for the design and construction industry, and for makers of energy
efficient insulated metal panel systems like Kingspan Insulated Panels North America.
GlobalWafers is a global leader in silicon wafer manufacturing. Evidence of the industry’s growth is GlobalWafer America’s new production facility in Sherman, Texas – the first silicon wafer manufacturing facility built from the ground
up in the US in over 20 years and one of the largest of its kind.
Led by Page Southerland Page, the architectural design of the facility required a building envelope solution that would meet the rigorous energy demands of semiconductor manufacturing while reflecting the modern, high-tech nature of the facility.
To achieve these goals, insulated metal panels (IMPs) from Kingspan were selected for their strong thermal performance and aesthetic versatility. The project features 261,635 square feet of QuadCore® Optimo panels, alongside 7,793 square feet of QuadCore®
KS Micro Rib panels.
Kingspan’s QuadCore® Optimo panels in a smooth profile and QuadCore® KS Micro Rib provide exceptional thermal efficiency, with high R-values up to 8.0 per inch and a continuous insulation core. Unlike traditional multi-layer wall systems
that require multiple materials to provide thermal, air, water, and vapor barriers, IMPs integrate all of these functions in one. These panels help to seal the building’s envelope with just one system. The
In addition to their thermal performance, the panels’ design flexibility allowed the creation of a striking façade that enhances the facility’s sleek, modern appearance. Subtle variations in color and texture highlight the entryway,
where a highly reflective blue sheen pays homage to the CD-like wafers produced inside. The variety of colors – Weathered Zinc, Ascot White, Pewter, Bright Silver and Indigo Blue – complements the architectural vision and brand identity
of GlobalWafers.
The panels’ single-component system significantly reduced installation time for installer Auzmet compared to traditional multi-component wall systems. This allowed the project to be enclosed quickly, minimizing delays, enabling interior work to
begin sooner, and accelerating the construction timeline. For facilities like this, the faster the construction is completed, the sooner they can start operations and generate revenue.
IMPs are also an ideal choice for this large-scale project in Texas’ extreme climate, as their durability and weather resistance ensure the facility will remain low-maintenance and high-performing for decades.
The integration of Kingspan’s IMPs in the construction process will help to strengthen the supply chain, shape the region’s future, and fuel innovation for years to come. This facility, completed in May 2025, will create more than 1,500 jobs
and stimulate the local economy, contributing to the growth of Sherman as a key industrial hub.