POSITIVE DISPLACEMENT PUMPS MARKET ANALYSIS

Positive Displacement Pumps Market Size and Trends

Global positive displacement pumps market is estimated to be valued at US$ 18.94 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 26.04 Bn by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2024 to 2031.

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Positive displacement pumps function by entrapping a fixed amount of fluid and pumping it with 100% volumetric efficiency. These pumps are used extensively across various industries like oil & gas, chemical, water & wastewater, and are suitable for high viscosity fluids and solids handling applications. The Global Positive Displacement Pumps market is expected to witness steady growth driven by growing oil & gas industry and increasing demand for water & wastewater management. Moreover, rising investments in process industries for production enhancements coupled with demand for solids handling capabilities of positive displacement pumps will further support the market growth during the forecast period.

Market Driver - Increasing demand for efficient fluid handling in various industries

With increasing industrialization, the need for efficient fluid handling has gained immense importance. Various industries such as chemicals, petroleum, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and others rely heavily on precise fluid transfer systems. Positive displacement pumps play a pivotal role in these industries as they can transfer highly viscous liquids and slurries with utmost accuracy. These pumps are also suitable for transferring dangerous and hazardous fluids given their enclosed construction which prevents leaks.

Over the past few years, there has been considerable rise in manufacturing activities across major developing regions. The chemical industry in particular has expanded rapidly in countries such as China, India, Brazil, and others owing to growing domestic demand for chemicals from sectors like construction and automotive. This has augmented the production of bulk chemicals, specialty chemicals and life science chemicals globally. Since precise dosing and metering of chemicals is critical in these industries, demand for positive displacement pumps has increased substantially. Their self-priming capability allows these pumps to transfer chemicals efficiently from storage tanks to reaction vessels without losing pressure.

Similarly, the global pharmaceutical industry has witnessed steady growth on the back of increasing healthcare spending and demand for generics. Large pharmaceutical companies are continuously expanding and setting up new production facilities, which involve extensive fluid transfer networks for manufacturing and processing activities. Positive displacement pumps play a vital role in critical pharmaceutical applications such as isolation of chemical intermediates, precise dosage of reagents, heat transfer, and temperature control. Their seal-less and chemically resistant designs make them suitable for handling even highly corrosive and complex pharmaceutical formulations.

Market Concentration and Competitive Landscape

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Growing Investments in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production

The oil and gas sector has been witnessing sizable investments over the past few years driven by rising energy demand worldwide coupled with volatility in crude oil prices. Significant capital is being channeled into upstream exploration and production activities aimed at replenishing depleting reserves and boosting existing output. The advent of unconventional oil and gas extraction technologies has opened up massive untapped reserves and revived investments in previously considered mature fields as well.

On the exploration front, oil companies supported by national oil companies are investing heavily into high-risk, deep-water and Arctic exploration projects to discover major new fields. Setting up offshore drilling rigs and platforms in remote ultra-deepwater locations involves deployment of an extensive network of sophisticated pumps for fluid transfer needs. Positive displacement pump varieties including plunger pumps and progressive cavity pumps have become indispensable for offshore drilling operations due to their fuel-efficiency, ability to handle slurries and greater reliability in corrosive marine environments.

For instance, in March 2023, KSB Limited, a prominent supplier of pumps, valves, and systems, acquired proprietary technology from Bharat Pumps and Compressors Ltd. (BP&CL), granting it exclusive ownership and rights to BP&CL's product line technology. This strategic acquisition enables KSB Limited to leverage its strengths and market potential, expanding its product offerings in both new pump systems and aftermarket markets. With this move, KSB Limited aims to enhance its service capabilities and support a wide range of industries, including oil and gas exploration and nuclear power plants, while contributing to the 'Make in India' initiative.

Key Takeaways from Analyst:

Global positive displacement pumps market shows promise for steady growth driven by rising oil and gas exploration activities and growth in the water and wastewater treatment industry will boost demand. Additionally, the increasing focus on automation in various end-use industries along with rising need for transporting hazardous and toxic fluids will fuel market expansion. However, availability of substitute pumping technologies may threaten market growth to some extent.

The North America region is expected to dominate the global positive displacement pumps market owing to rapid industrialization and infrastructure development projects in the region. Asia Pacific will also present profitable opportunities driven by shale gas exploration activities and refurbishment projects in mature markets. Europe, on the other hand, may witness relatively slower growth due to stringent emissions regulations hindering operations.

Ongoing focus on product innovations tailored for niche applications as well as integration of IoT capabilities are positive trends that will create growth opportunities for market players. Manufacturers must also invest in aftermarket services and strengthen distribution networks to leverage opportunities arising from infrastructure investments in developing markets. However, market stakeholders need to keep a close watch on rising raw material costs and address challenges related to changing trade policies and protectionist measures to sustain long-term growth.

Market Challenge - High maintenance costs associated with positive displacement pumps

Positive displacement pumps typically require higher maintenance costs compared to other pump types due to more moving parts and tight clearances between rotating and static parts. This requires regular inspection and replacement of worn-out parts to avoid leakage. The frequent repairs and downtime for maintenance affects plant uptime and operational efficiency. In addition, the maintenance activities involve disassembling the pump, inspection and replacement of seals, O-rings, check valves, gears, etc. which is a complex and labor intensive process. This leads to higher spares inventory carrying costs. The maintenance downtime also reduces pump availability. With increasing demand for non-stop production across industries, the maintenance overheads negatively impact the profitability of operations. High maintenance costs is a major challenge for wider adoption of positive displacement pumps especially in developing markets where labor costs are high. Efforts need to be taken to improve pump designs to reduce wear and tear, simplify maintenance activities and increase lifespan between overhauls.

Market Opportunity - Technological advancements leading to more efficient pump designs

Recent advancements in materials, engineering and manufacturing technologies have enabled development of next generation positive displacement pump designs with improved efficiencies. New surface coating techniques have increased wear resistance of components prolonging life of rubbers, gears and sealing elements inside pumps. Advanced 3D printing is being used to produce complex internal configurations that minimize fluid turbulence and leakage. Digital tools allow virtual prototyping and hydrodynamic analysis during design stage itself to optimize flow parameters. Internet of Things (IoT) integration in new pumps provides real-time performance monitoring reducing unexpected failures. Predictive maintenance enabled by IoT and data analytics can schedule repairs before breakdown. More efficient pump designs translate to significant energy savings and higher process yields for end users. This presents lucrative business opportunities for pump manufacturers to target more application areas and expand into new geographies.

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Insights By Type - Dependability Drives Gear Pump segment Demand

In terms of type, the gear pumps segment is estimated to contribute the highest market share of 36.1% in 2024 owing to their reputation for dependability and reliability. Gear pumps are positive displacement pumps that use a set of meshing teeth to force fluid from the pump's inlet to its outlet. Their simplicity makes them virtually maintenance-free, as they have no seals or packing to wear out over time. This helps gear pumps operate continuously for decades with minimal service required. Their ability to transfer abrasive or viscous fluids also makes them well-suited for many industrial processes that require precise fluid movement. Gear pumps are durable enough to withstand pressure spikes and fluid surges without damage. These attributes give gear pumps an advantage in industries like manufacturing, water treatment, food production, and more where dependable pump operation is mission-critical.

Insights By Application - Essential Infrastructure Drives Oil & Gas segment

In terms of by application, the oil & gas segment estimated to contribute the highest market share of 31.5% in 2024 as positive displacement pumps play an essential role in petroleum infrastructure. Pumps are needed at every stage of oil and gas operations, from initial extraction to finished product transportation. Drilling rigs use displacement pumps to circulate drilling mud. Fracking operations employ powerful pumps to fracture shale formations. Pipelines require pumps to maintain constant pressurized flow over long distances. Storage tanks and shipping vessels also rely on pumps. Given the immense scale of global oil and gas infrastructure, the industry has an enormous demand for pumps that can handle abrasive slurries, high pressures, and corrosive or flammable fluids. Positive displacement designs like reciprocating plunger pumps are well-suited to meet these operational challenges.

Insights By End User - Industrial segment Process Criticality Drives Plant Adoption

In terms of by end user, the industrial segment is estimated to contribute the highest market share of 54.7% in 2024 due to factories' reliance on process-critical pumps. Manufacturing plants have myriad liquid handling needs that often require precision flow control. Positive displacement pumps are mainstays in industries like automotive, electronics, food processing, and chemicals because they deliver consistent, pulse-free flow even at low speeds or high viscosities. For example, piston pumps are mainstays in precision coating and dispensing applications. Diaphragm pumps are commonly used to transfer sanitary or sterile fluids in pharmaceutical plants. Given manufacturing's need for efficient, regulated fluid transfer, industrial facilities turn to positive displacement designs to keep production lines running smoothly. Uptime is paramount, making these durable and service-friendly pumps a necessity across many sectors.

For instance, in March 2022, Atlas Copco, a leading global manufacturer of industrial tools and equipment, announced its agreement to acquire LEWA GmbH, a prominent manufacturer of diaphragm metering pumps, process pumps, and complete metering systems. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Atlas Copco's offerings in the industrial pumps sector, allowing the company to leverage LEWA's expertise and technology to better serve its customers. The acquisition is expected to strengthen Atlas Copco's position in the market and expand its product portfolio within the Power and Flow division.

Regional Insights

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North America has established itself as the dominant region in the global positive displacement pumps market. The region is expected to hold 36.1% of the market share in 2024. The oil & gas industry has a commanding presence in the region, especially in the U.S. With extensive onshore and offshore activities, pumping solutions are extensively used for exploration, extraction and transportation of oil and natural gas. Leading pump manufacturers have set up production bases as well as research and development centers in the region to cater to the demand from regional oil companies.

Stringent regulations regarding safety and efficiency of pumps used in the industry have further encouraged manufacturers to innovate. Thanks to rapid technological adoption, pumps produced in North America often have advanced features. This prompts significant pump exports to other mature markets. However, trade uncertainties and policies impact export volumes. Localized manufacturing helps counter import restrictions to some extent.

The flourishing chemical industry augments regional pump requirement further. Process pumps capable of handling corrosive fluids are widely needed. Robust manufacturing infrastructure and presence of major end-use industries will continue propelling the North American positive displacement pumps market.

Asia Pacific has emerged as the fastest growing region. Rapid industrialization and infrastructure development across developing nations propel pump installation. The region is now a manufacturing powerhouse for several industries including automotive, chemicals and oil & gas. Growing plant capacities and new production facilities amplify pumping needs.

Strong economic growth also boosts process industry investments. This increases requirement for slurry, liquid natural gas and other specialized pumps. Water treatment initiatives in urbanizing markets open up opportunities as well. However, the pandemic impacted several developing Asian economies like China, Japan, etc., curbing pump demand recovery.

Ongoing projects like expansion of refining capacities and construction of new petrochemical complexes bode well over the long run. This will sustain the momentum of the Asia Pacific positive displacement pumps market. Additionally, free trade policies assist manufacturers to procure components at competitive costs, giving their products an edge in export markets.

Market Report Scope

Positive Displacement Pumps Industry News

• In April 2023, Packo, a leading manufacturer of pumps and related technologies, unveiled its ZLC rotary lobe pump, which has been certified as 3A compliant. This innovative pump is specifically designed for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and cosmetic industries, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from personal hygiene products to medical substances. The ZLC pump ensures the highest safety and hygiene standards, addressing the demanding needs of these sectors and enhancing Packo's product offerings in critical markets.
• In June 2021, Anderson Process, a leading Midwest supplier of process equipment and services, acquired Premier Pump Inc., a long-standing pump distributor and service provider based in Cleveland, Ohio. This strategic acquisition strengthened Anderson Process's service and support capabilities throughout the Midwest region. After the acquisition, Anderson Process will have warehouse and service facilities in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio in the U.S., allowing the company to specify and supply a comprehensive line of process equipment, including pumps, hoses, filtration, and more, to nearly any organization in the Midwest.
• In May 2021, CDI Energy Products, a provider of high-performance polymer components for the energy and chemical process industries, announced the development and launch of its newest proprietary thermoplastic polymer composite material. This innovative material is specifically aimed at applications in centrifugal and positive displacement pumps, enhancing performance and reliability in demanding environments. The new thermoplastic composite is designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it ideal for various industrial applications and contributing to CDI Energy Products’ commitment to advancing material technology in the pump sector.
• In January 2021, IDEX Corporation, a global leader in fluid and metering technologies, announced its acquisition of Abel Pumps, L.P., valued at $103.5 million, which was expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2021. Abel Pumps, based in Germany, specializes in designing and manufacturing engineered reciprocating positive displacement pumps for various industries, including mining, marine, and wastewater. This acquisition allows IDEX to enhance its product offerings and expand its capabilities in the pump market, further solidifying its position as a key player in fluid management solutions.

*Definition: Global positive displacement pumps market consists of various types of pumps that displace or replace a fixed volume of fluid with each cycle of operation. They rely on the mechanical action of pushes or pulls on fluid to induce higher pressures and move fluids through a system. This market provides pumps like rotary lobe pumps, progressive cavity pumps, gear pumps, screw pumps, vane pumps, peristaltic pumps, and diaphragm pumps that are used extensively in various industries like oil and gas, water and wastewater, food and beverages, power, and others. The pumps displace a fixed volume of fluid with each cycle and are self-priming as well as capable of handling fluids with high viscosity or solids.

Market Segmentation

•  Type Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • Gear Pumps
  • Diaphragm Pumps
  • Screw Pumps
  • Piston Pumps
  • Others
•  Application Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • Oil & Gas
  • Water & Wastewater
  • Chemicals
  • Food & Beverages
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Others
•  End User Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • Industrial
  • Commercial
  • Residential
• Regional Insights (Revenue, US$ Bn, 2019 - 2031)
  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Mexico
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • Spain
    • France
    • Italy
    • Russia
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • ASEAN
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
    • GCC Countries
    • Israel
    • Rest of Middle East
  • Africa
    • South Africa
    • North Africa
    • Central Africa
• Key Players Insights
  • Grundfos Holding A/S
  • Schlumberger Limited
  • Flowserve Corporation
  • KSB SE & Co. KGaA
  • ITT Inc.
  • Alfa Laval AB
  • Cat Pumps
  • Parker Hannifin Corporation
  • Xylem Inc.
  • SPX Flow, Inc.
  • ARO (Ingersoll Rand)
  • Honeywell International Inc.
  • Weir Group PLC
  • Wilo SE
  • Dover Corporation