The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word DICING
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Chip anufacturing step" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case chip anufacturing step = dicing.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DICING mean?
DICING verb- To play dice.
- To cut into small cubes.
- To ornament with squares, diamonds, or cubes.
- A game of dice.
- A fragment of diced food.