Silfab - First Solar Polysilicon Manufacturing Facility In Italy by Staff Writers Danbury CT (SPX) Mar 03, 2008 Praxair has been chosen by Silfab as the supplier of gases, gas equipment and gas management services for Silfab's solar grade polysilicon manufacturing facility in Borgofranco d'Ivrea, Italy. Rivoira will provide on-site supply of gases as well as gas delivery equipment and management services for the entire project, which will produce 5,000 metric tons of solar grade polysilicon per year.

The first phase of manufacturing is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2009, with production of 2,500 metric tons per year.

"Collaboration with partner suppliers is important to our success in providing high quality products to our customers," said Franco Traverso, Silfab Chairman and Managing Director. "We believe our relationship with Rivoira is a key component to our supply chain."

As an experienced supplier to the polysilicon and photovoltaic industries, Praxair offers a complete portfolio of process gases, gas handling and distribution systems, services and deposition materials, to help customers operate efficiently and reliably.