ANEMOMETER MARKET ANALYSIS

Accuracy and calibration issues have been one of the key restraints hampering the growth of the global anemometer market. Anemometers are instruments used to measure wind speed and are an important part of various industries like aviation, weather monitoring, wind energy, etc. However, maintaining long term accuracy and regular calibration of anemometer sensors has been a challenge.

Anemometers rely on sensor components like windcups, propellers, ultrasonic sensors, etc. to capture the kinetic energy of moving air and convert it into an electrical signal. Over prolonged usage, external environmental factors like dust, moisture, corrosion, etc. tend to degrade the sensitivity and functioning of these sensors. Even minor drifts in sensor readings can lead to inaccurate wind speed data. This is particularly critical in applications involving flight safety, weather forecasting models, and wind turbine performance optimization which rely on highly precise anemometer measurements. Furthermore, anemometer sensors may also get knocked out of calibration due to mechanical damage during transportation or installation.

Maintaining NIST traceable calibration certification is important for anemometers used in commercial and industrial applications. However, the process of recalibrating anemometer sensors periodically in a lab setup requires downtime from use and adds to operating expenses. With the abundance of low-cost anemometer models in the market, cost-effective solutions ensuring long term accuracy and minimizing calibration needs could accelerate anemometer adoption.

Market Opportunities: Emerging applications in aviation industry

The aviation industry is embracing newer technologies at a rapid pace which is opening up opportunities for anemometers used in aircrafts. Emerging applications such as extensive research on renewable energy solutions for aircrafts as well as new vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft designs are likely to drive the demand for accurate wind measurement instruments in the coming years.

Research organizations like NASA and the European Commission are heavily funding projects for developing hybrid and all-electric aircraft prototypes which rely on technologies like wind turbines and large batteries. Anemometers play a vital role in collecting wind speed data for analyzing the feasibility of these renewable setups placed on aircraft wings and horizontal stabilizers. As these advanced aircraft concepts reach production and commercialization stages post 2025, their deployment will create persistent demand for aerodynamic anemometers specialized for aviation wind tunnels and test flights.

Similarly, novel VTOL aircraft designs capable of both helicopter- and plane-like operations are being planned for urban air mobility and cargo delivery missions. Leading automotive companies like BMW and Airbus have ongoing projects on electric VTOL vehicles aimed at air taxi services for crowded city centers. Testing and certification of VTOL aircraft aeromechanics requires sophisticated anemometers to analyze complex rotor/wing performance under varying wind conditions. Technologies proven through upcoming VTOL vehicle demonstrators in 2023 reported by European Commission may set the path for mass adoption of such aircraft in future, thus supporting anemometer usage.