Universal Quantum and Atlas Copco Partner to Industrialize Vacuum Systems for Scalable Quantum Computers - Quantum Computing Report

Universal Quantum and Atlas Copco Partner to Industrialize Vacuum Systems for Scalable Quantum Computers Universal Quantum, a company developing utility-scale trapped-ion quantum computers, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Atlas Copco Group, a global leader in vacuum and cryogenic technologies. The partnership aims to co-develop integrated vacuum solutions specifically engineered for large-scale, modular quantum architectures, transitioning these systems from laboratory research tools into industrial-grade machinery. Universal Quantum’s architecture utilizes multiple silicon ion trap chips that operate together within a continuous Extreme High Vacuum (XHV) environment. These modules are interconnected via UQ Connect, a proprietary electronic interconnect that enables the physical movement of ions between chips with high fidelity. Maintaining long-term stability and preventing background gas collisions within this shared vacuum system is critical for supporting the fast ion transport and high-fidelity operations required for machines with thousands of qubits. Under the MoU, Universal Quantum will collaborate with Atlas Copco’s Scientific Vacuum Division, leveraging its specialized brands—including Edwards, Leybold, Gamma, and Montana Instruments. The technical roadmaps of the two companies will align to address several key objectives: XHV to Acute High Vacuum (AHV): Co-developing advanced vacuum platforms that identify a technical pathway from XHV into Acute High Vacuum (AHV) environments.

Sovereign Supply Chain: Establishing a UK and European supply chain for vacuum system equipment tailored for quantum computing. Production Readiness: Enabling near-term prototyping and long-term production capabilities for next-generation quantum hardware. Dr. Michael Newman, VP Engineering at Universal Quantum, stated that the partnership brings world-class industrial capability directly into the company’s scaling architecture, building the “vacuum backbone” necessary to carry quantum computing into fully manufacturable systems. Atlas Copco noted that the integration of vacuum and cryogenics is entering a stage where they are no longer just laboratory tools but essential components of full production systems. Read the full announcement here.