Brooks Automation said on Thursday it has confidentially filed for an initial public offering in the United States. The U.S. IPO market is showing signs of a stronger September, with several companies filing for public listings. Brooks provides automation and contamination-control solutions for the semiconductor and life sciences industries, with operations in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East.

Semiconductors are critical to the U.S. economy, powering everything from defense systems to smartphones and computers. In 2021, Brooks Automation sold its semiconductor automation business to private equity firm Thomas H. Lee Partners for $3 billion in cash.

The Chelmsford, Massachusetts-based company said the number of shares to be offered and the price range for the proposed offering have not yet been determined. Confidential filings with the U.S. securities regulator allow companies to prepare for IPOs away from public market scrutiny.