Global AC Drives Market

Description

Introduction

AC drives are electronic devices which change the frequency and in-turn control the operation of an induction motor. The drive is primarily used to control the torque/speed of the motor. The arrival of the drive in the market has led to a tremendous increase in the productivity by monitoring and saving energy and extending the life of equipment. The advantages of AC drives are as follows:

1. The speed/torque of the motor can be easily controlled
2. Start and stop can be performed easily (smooth)
3. Machine standardization can take place
4. The direction of rotation can be altered with ease

AC drive find application in a wide range of industries like oil & gas, mining, and waste water management etc. The CAGR for the industry is close to 8% during the period 2017-2022

Market Dynamics

The increasing automation, urbanisation and industrialization are the key growth factors. The need to save energy and create energy efficient process is also leading to growth of this market. In the developed countries the advent and continuous application of Industrial Internet of Things also is boosting the demand for AC drives. The movement towards the usage of renewable energy sources also help in increasing the demand for AC drives as they are heavily used in solar farms, wind farms etc. Also the usage of these drives in several auxiliary markets is also contributing to its growth. The growth of automation and control systems.

The main impediment for this industry is the decrease in the foreign direct investment and other capital inflows. The decrease in Greenfield or ‘from the scratch’ projects is one of the primary hindrance to the growth of this industry. The growing competition due to local players is another cause of concern. Also the increasing complexities in the functioning whose development is taking time is another restraint of growth.

Market Segmentation

The market can be segmented on various parameters. The segmentation on the basis of voltage is as follows:

1. Low Voltage – This market provides highest contribution in revenue. Used in industries such as building automation, food and beverages, and Oil and Natural gas etc.
2. Medium Voltage – This segment is forecasted to grow at the fastest rate. Used in industries such as petrochemicals, metals and mining, and cement etc.
3. High Voltage

Based on the drive type the market is segmented as follows:

1. Reversible drive types
2. Non-Reversible drive types

Based on end user segmentation of the global AC drives market

1. F&B
2. Power Generation
3. Metals and Mining
4. Oil and Gas
5. Water and Wastewater
6. Petrochemicals
7. Paper and Pulp

On the basis of application, the market may be segmented into

1. Pumps
2. Fans
3. Compressors
4. Extruders
5. Others

Regional/Geographic Analysis

On the basis of region, the market can be segmented into North America, Europe and Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. The market penetration is highest in the North American region. The growth rate is fastest in the APAC region. This is due to the large scale industrialization taking place in this region. Also the Middle East region is also expected to growth at a faster pace due to the many infrastructure projects and oil and gas operations in the region.

Key Players

Some of the major players in the market include ABB Ltd., Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Hitachi Ltd., Rockwell Automation, Danfoss Group, Parker Hannifin Co. etc.