ELECTRIC LINEAR CYLINDERS MARKET ANALYSIS

Global electric linear cylinders market was valued at US$ 760.4 Mn in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 1,135.8 Mn in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.1% over the forecast period (2023 - 2030). Among verticals, the food and beverages segment is expected to register the highest CAGR of 5.8% over the forecast period.

Technological advancements in the design and development of electric linear cylinders and actuators is an ongoing trend in the industry. Electric cylinders are high-performance and cost-effective alternatives to pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, which has led manufacturers to focus on boosting innovation in design, and improve capabilities of electric linear cylinders. For instance, Bosch Rexroth, an engineering company offers modern control technology with customization that allows changes in parameters for position, force, and travel speed. The company offers high performance electromechanical cylinders with high-precision ball screw assemblies, complete turn-key systems, high energy efficiency, compact structural design, and hygienic design for users. The current focus of major manufacturers is on delivering an electric linear cylinder with a small, strong, and dependable design that has a longer lifespan and requires little maintenance. SMAC Corporation, leading manufacturer of precision programmable electric actuators, offers electric actuators with life cycle beyond 100 million cycles, and the ability to repeat a move within one millisecond. Additionally, the subsea electric actuators by Ultra Motion, provider of high-performance linear actuators, operate at a depth of 22,000 feet underwater (10,000 psi)

Moreover, the key players are offering solutions that can be tailored to meet performance specifications specific to the industry's needs. This may include capabilities that go beyond standard specifications to carry out certain tasks. For instance, Bosh Rexroth, Ultra Motion, RK Rose+Krieger GmbH, and others offer custom-made electric cylinders or actuators for a wide range of applications across various industry verticals.

Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market: Covid 19 Impact

The global electric linear cylinders market has experienced significant impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic led to widespread disruptions in supply chains, manufacturing operations, and global trade, which affected the overall demand and production of electric linear cylinders. During the initial phase of the pandemic, many countries implemented strict lockdown measures and social distancing protocols, leading to the temporary closure of manufacturing facilities and a decline in industrial activities. This resulted in a reduced demand for electric linear cylinders as several end-user industries, including automotive, aerospace, and construction, experienced a slowdown or even halted their operations. Additionally, travel restrictions and trade barriers imposed to contain the spread of the virus hampered international trade, causing delays in the shipment of raw materials and components required for the production of electric linear cylinders. The disruptions in the supply chain further exacerbated the challenges faced by manufacturers in meeting customer demands.

However, as the pandemic progressed, the demand for electric linear cylinders gradually rebounded. The increasing adoption of automation and robotics in various industries, including logistics, healthcare, and e-commerce, drove the demand for electric linear cylinders as they are essential components for precise linear motion control. These cylinders are used in applications such as material handling, packaging, assembly lines, and industrial machinery.

Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market: Regional Insights

Based on region, the global electric linear cylinders market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Out of which Asia Pacific is the dominant region.

In 2020, the electric linear cylinders market in India generated a revenue of US$ 41.2 Mn, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% over the forecast period.

The market in India is expected to witness significant growth throughout the forecast period owing to the rapidly expanding economy, and favorable Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policies.

The automotive industry is one of the largest industries in India and has observed several new entrants. The recent entry of the U.K.-based brand, MG Hector, and South Korea-based brand, KIA is expected to boost the growth of India’s automotive sector. Therefore, the growing automotive sector and the increasing adoption of automation are expected to boost the demand for electric linear cylinders in the market.

Furthermore, some of the prominent automobile manufacturers, such as Daimler, BMW, Ford, Nissan, and Volkswagen, have production bases in India, thus boosting market growth. Other rapidly growing industry verticals in India are the food and beverages and pharmaceutical sectors, thereby contributing to the growth of the global electric linear cylinders market.

Figure 1: Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market Share (%), By Region, 2022

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Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market - Drivers

Increasing Industrial Automation

The need for electric linear cylinders has increased as a result of the increased focus on industrial automation and the requirement for accurate linear motion control across a range of sectors including manufacturing, packaging, and automotive. These cylinders are crucial parts of automated systems as they provide repeatable and precise linear motion. For instance, in the automotive body assembly, electric linear cylinders are used for tasks such as door and hood opening/closing, part alignment, and component insertion, ensuring proper alignment and fitment of body panels. The accuracy and repeatability of electric linear cylinders contribute to the overall quality and efficiency of the assembly process.

Advancements in Technology

Electric linear cylinder designs have seen considerable improvement in performance and efficiency due to technological advancements. In order to improve monitoring, control, and integration with automation systems, manufacturers are introducing features such as built-in sensors, improved control systems, and intelligent networking choices. The electric linear cylinder use is being driven by these developments in a variety of sectors. For instance, manufacturers are introducing built-in sensors in electric linear cylinders that can provide real-time feedback on position, velocity, and force. These sensors enable accurate monitoring and control of linear motion, ensuring precise dosage delivery and high-quality packaging in pharmaceutical applications. The feedback from these sensors can be utilized for closed-loop control, allowing for adaptive and precise motion control.

Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market - Opportunities

Growing Demand in Emerging Economies

India, China, Brazil, and Southeast Asia examples of emerging economies that are undergoing rapid industrialization and infrastructural development. As a result, there are many prospects for producers of electric linear cylinders to meet the rising need for automation and motion control solutions in these areas.

Renewable Energy Sector

Opportunities for electric linear cylinders exist in the growing field of renewable energy, which includes the production of solar and wind energy. To maximize energy production and increase efficiency, these cylinders are used in a variety of renewable energy applications including solar panel tracking systems and wind turbine pitch control systems.

Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market -Trends

Integration of IoT and Connectivity

Electric linear cylinders are increasingly using Internet of Things (IoT) technology and communication capabilities. IoT-enabled linear cylinders offer greater flexibility, efficiency, and predictive maintenance capabilities by enabling remote monitoring, diagnostics, and control. This development makes it possible to gather data in real-time, analyze it, and optimize linear motion systems for better operational performance. Major potential opportunities are presented by automated vehicles and sophisticated driver support technologies.

Demand for Compact and Lightweight Solutions

Particularly in sectors with space or weight limits, there is an increasing need for small and light electric linear cylinders. Miniaturized linear cylinders provide benefits such as mobility, adaptability, and space-saving design. They are used in industries including consumer electronics, robotics, medical equipment, and lab equipment.

 Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market - Restraints

High Initial Investments

Electric linear cylinders often have higher initial costs than their hydraulic or pneumatic counterparts. As the motor, control systems, and associated electronics are more expensive, electric linear cylinders may initially be more expensive. Due to this cost factor, some end users may decide against implementing electric linear cylinders, especially in price-sensitive industries. A thorough cost-performance study that demonstrates the long-term advantages and cost savings associated with electric linear cylinders in comparison to their hydraulic or pneumatic counterparts is an effective strategy for offsetting the high initial costs of electric linear cylinders. Energy efficiency, maintenance needs, operating expenses, and total productivity improvements should all be taken into account in this research.

Limited Load Capacity and Speed Range

In comparison to hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, electric linear cylinders may have limitations in terms of load capacity and speed range. Electric linear cylinder performance has increased owing to technological developments, however they might not be appropriate for high-load or high-speed applications. Their use is constrained by this restriction in particular heavy-duty applications or industries. Manufacturers and industry stakeholders can use a variety of tactics to balance out the electric linear cylinders' restricted speed and load range. Electric linear cylinder performance is constantly being improved because of technical breakthroughs and updates in the linear cylinders. Manufacturers may improve motor technology, materials, and control systems to boost load capacity and reach faster speeds by investing in research and development. With the help of these developments, electric linear cylinders may now be used in a wider range of industrial applications, including those that call for large weights and rapid movement.          

Figure 2: Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market Share (%), By Linear Speed, 2022

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Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market - Segmentation

The global electric linear cylinders market report is segmented into linear speed, vertical, and region.

Among linear speeds, the above 0.5 m/s segment held the dominant position in the global electric linear cylinders market in 2022 and is projected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. Electric cylinders with linear speed above 0.5 m/s have applications in thrust-rod type actuators. These actuators are ball screw or load screw driven. The primary application of these cylinders is in pushing-pulling and inserting operations, which require very short extension and retraction times. The cylinders with steel reinforced belts achieve speeds of 10 m/s or more. Rack and Pinion cylinders normally reach speeds of 5 m/s. For instance, Curtiss-Wright, an aviation company offer FTX Series actuators with electric rod-style structure, which delivers continuous force up to 44 kN, and speed up to 1.166 m/s.

Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market: Key Developments

1. In 2020, Thomson Industries, a machines industry company introduced Electrak HD electric linear actuators, which offer high load capacity and durability. The actuator incorporates a roller screw mechanism for improved performance and is designed to withstand harsh industrial environments. Thomson Industries also focused on enhancing connectivity options by adding fieldbus communication protocols to its electric linear cylinder product line.
2. In 2020, Tolomatic, manufacturer of linear motion solutions introduced Actuator Control and System Integration (ACSI) servo-driven electric linear actuator. It combines an integrated servo motor and drive with a precision-rolled ball screw to provide accurate and efficient linear motion control. The ACSI actuator incorporates feedback devices for precise position control and offers seamless integration with various industrial control systems.

Global Electric Linear Cylinders Market: Key Companies Insights

The global electric linear cylinder market manufactures electrically-powered linear actuators or cylinders, which are tools used to translate rotational motion into linear motion. These cylinders cater to the manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare industries.

The major players operating in the global electric linear cylinders industry include Bosch Rexroth AG, Tsubakimoto Europe B.V., RACO-Elektro-Maschinen GmbH, Mul-T-Lock, Exlar Europe GmbH, Linearmech S.R.L., Parker Hannifin, SEW-EURODRIVE GmbH & Co KG, SKF, BJ-Gear, Kollmorgen, Tolomatic, RK Rose+Krieger GmbH, Seimens AG, Moog, Inc., SMC Corporation, and Rockwell Automation.

*Definition: An electric linear cylinder, also known as an electric linear actuator or electric linear motion device, is a mechanical device that converts electrical energy into linear motion. It is designed to provide controlled and precise movement in a straight line. Electric linear cylinders typically consist of a motor, a screw or belt mechanism, and a housing that houses the components.