Growth in Europe set for MEMS process instruments
Total revenues in the European pressure sensors and transmitters markets stood at US$1,484.8 million in 2005 and are set to reach US$2,069.6 million by 2012, according to market researchers at Frost & Sullivan. Among the various pressure sensors and transmitters, MEMS-based pressure sensors and transmitters registered the largest revenue share, cornering an estimated 42.1% of total market revenues in 2005.
“Advances in manufacturing techniques such as micromachining, thick and thin film deposition techniques and electrical discharge machining have enabled the development of micron-scale pressure sensors, expanding the scope of application of pressure sensors,” say research analysts Mr. Gomathinayagam S. and Dr. Rajender Thusu. “The hike in demand for the micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)-based sensors is an indication of the growing popularity of the miniature sensors and demand for such sensors will increase further over the forecast period.”
However, they warn that participants in European pressure sensors and transmitters markets will need to understand that the market is nearing maturity. Consequently, a few notable trends in the market are the general slackening of demand, moderate technology innovation and heightened competition among market participants resulting in greater price pressure. Also, the lack of impetus for fresh investments in Greenfield projects is expected to be a major restraint on the growth of the market.
While Germany represents the largest regional market for pressure sensors and transmitters, its market is approaching saturation, and it is Eastern Europe that holds the greatest potential for future growth. In addition, its proximity to the European market and relatively low manufacturing costs, make the region an attractive alternative to other low-cost manufacturing destinations.
“Overall, high growth in the MEMS, strain gauge and piezoelectric pressure technologies is likely to ensure the deeper penetration of pressure sensors and transmitters in the European market,” says Dr.Thusu. “With the trend towards digital electronics, software integration and networking systems, manufacturers of pressure sensors and transmitters will need to enhance their product offerings to stay competitive in the market.”
Monitoring and process control play a pivotal role in ensuring that the processes are within operational limits and demand for process instrumentation is seeing a steady increase. These instruments provide critical process data, real-time, and also help plant engineers take informed decisions.
An added factor aiding the growth of the market has been the technological advancements that have made pressure sensors more versatile and reliable. Modern day pressure transmitters are incorporated with added functionality and along with pressure, can also monitor temperature variations, detect leaks and provide feedback to the control system. With end users looking for better asset management, such combination sensing systems will find greater demand in the future.
