A blower is a mechanical device that utilizes an impeller to
move air or gas in a particular direction. These devices are commonly used in a
wide range of industries, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC), industrial processing, and chemical processing. Blowers are designed to
generate high volumes of air or gas flow, with various sizes and configurations
available to suit different applications.
One of the most common types of blowers is the centrifugal
blower, which works by drawing air into the device's housing and accelerating
it with a rotating impeller. As the air moves outward from the impeller, it is
directed into a diffuser, which slows the air down and converts its kinetic
energy into pressure. This pressure generates a flow of air or gas, which can
be directed through ductwork to various parts of a building or industrial
facility.
Another type of blower is the axial blower, which utilizes a
series of rotating blades to move air or gas parallel to the axis of the
device. Axial blowers are commonly used in applications that require high flow
rates and low pressure, such as cooling electronic components or ventilating large
spaces.
Blowers can also be categorized according to their power
source, with electric blowers being the most common. Electric blowers are
typically more energy-efficient and easier to control than other types of
blowers, such as those powered by internal combustion engines. However, in
certain applications where electricity is not readily available, gas-powered
blowers may be preferred.
Dynamics of Blower Market
Drivers in Blower
Market
The blower market is witnessing growth due to increasing
investments and capacity expansions, driven by the rapid industrialization and
manufacturing activities. The blower equipment is widely used for air and gas
flow in several applications, such as fermentation, pneumatic conveying,
cooling, and heating, among others. The market is spread across industries,
including cement, steel, mining, power, chemicals & petrochemicals, pulp
& paper, food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and water & wastewater
treatment. Around 70% of manufacturers use compressed air systems.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
(UNCTAD) reported that global greenfield project investments in manufacturing
industries amounted to USD 237 billion in 2023, with developing economies
accounting for USD 135 billion. This growth is primarily due to the boost in
industrial and economic developments in emerging economies in Asia Pacific and
Africa. Additionally, the emphasis on industrial automation and government
initiatives to promote it is driving the demand for blowers.
According to the International Energy Agency's (IEA) report
on global energy investment, published in July 2021, global energy investment
rebounded strongly in 2020, reaching $1.9 trillion, following a sharp decline
in 2019.
Some key statistics
from the report include:
- Investment in renewable energy capacity increased by 2% in
2020, reaching a record high of $303.5 billion.
- Solar power attracted the largest share of renewable energy
investment in 2020, accounting for 57% of total investment in renewable energy.
- Investment in energy efficiency fell by 9% in 2020,
primarily due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the buildings sector.
- Fossil fuel investments declined by 8% in 2020, with the
majority of the decrease occurring in upstream oil and gas.
- China remained the largest market for energy investment in
2020, accounting for one-third of global investment, followed by the United
States and the European Union.
- Investment in energy research and development (R&D)
remained flat in 2020, with government and corporate R&D spending each
accounting for about half of total R&D investment.
The chemical and petrochemical industries require blowers
for processing and operating mechanisms, and a total investment of USD 50
billion will be made in coke and refined petroleum projects during the forecast
period. With rapid industrialization and increasing manufacturing activities
across emerging economies, the demand for the blower market is on the rise.
Additionally, several sectors have made air and gas movement, filtration, and
cleaning essential to their production processes, which is further driving
market growth.
The growing demand for higher power, small size, and better
performing applications is driving the advancement in thermal technologies,
leading to an increase in demand for hotspot cooling blowers. Companies like
BOYD corporation have launched customized blowers with innovative ducting and
airflow management, heat pipes, and vapor chambers to meet consumer requirements.
Such factors are expected to drive the market further.
Restraints in Blower
Market
The high total cost of ownership is a major restraint for
the aeration blower industry. The cost is generally calculated by taking into
account three factors, namely, initial investment, lifetime maintenance costs,
and lifetime energy costs. Energy consumption accounts for a significant
portion of a blower's lifespan cost, almost 80-85% during its 10-year lifespan.
In the water and wastewater treatment industry, aeration blower systems can
consume as much as 70% of a plant's total energy consumption, making energy
cost and consumption the primary drivers behind the development of more
efficient aeration blower systems.
Advancements in aeration blower technology are offering new
options for reducing energy consumption. However, proper understanding of the
overall system and operating conditions is crucial to achieving a positive
return on investment and reducing the total cost of ownership. Incorrect use of
blower technology can prevent the expected cost benefits from being realized.
Factors such as daily and seasonal variations in oxygen demand, fouling and
aging of diffusers, air flow control and turndown capabilities, total blower
efficiency, energy consumption over time, mode of operation, blower
accessories, and plant setup play a significant role in choosing the right
blower for water and wastewater treatment.
Opportunities in
Blower Market
The adoption of energy-efficient blowers presents
significant opportunities in the wake of the Paris Agreement, which aims to
limit global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Energy-efficient air
solutions are gaining attention as a means to lower energy costs and reduce
emissions. According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), approximately 50% of
industrial plant air systems offer significant opportunities for energy savings
at relatively low costs. For this reason, proper maintenance and high-level
monitoring are necessary to enhance the life cycle of pneumatic devices and
ensure the reliability of air systems.
Air compressors that generate low-pressure compressed air
between 0.3-1.5 bar (4-22 psi) can be replaced by air blowers to make
applications more energy-efficient. About 7% of energy is wasted when the air
is compressed above the actual demand. The operational cost of a blower is
determined by its energy consumption, but modern blowers are capable of
achieving long-term savings and a cleaner environment. They require less fuel
and generate less noise. Moreover, modern blowers come with a heat recovery
feature, which helps recover up to 90% of the heat generated by compressors.
The recovered energy can be utilized for pre-heating of feedwater or air, which
is a significant advancement for power generation industries. High-speed turbo
blowers are renowned for their highly efficient operation, resulting in low
energy consumption and total cost of ownership. Modern compressed air systems
recommend the use of IE4-compliant motors, which help in reducing electricity
consumption. All these factors provide better growth opportunities for the
blower market.
Wastewater treatment plants consume up to 70% of energy in
aeration, and the energy consumption of the units often exceeds five to ten
times the purchase price of a blower. Manufacturers are developing blowers with
variable speed drives to reduce energy consumption. For example, Atlas Copco
provides blowers with variable speed drives, which lower energy consumption by
an average of 30% compared to other technologies.
Challenges in Blower
Market
The blower market is highly competitive, with both local and
international players. To stand out in this market, product quality is a
crucial factor. The organized sector typically caters to industrial buyers and
adheres to industry standards to maintain superior product quality. Conversely,
the unorganized sector offers cheaper alternatives to the market. Local
manufacturers often target the unorganized sector and pose a strong competition
to global suppliers in their respective markets. This has created a challenge
for leading market players who face tough competition from new entrants in the
gray market that offer low-quality and inexpensive products. These gray market
players are more price-competitive and have a better local distribution
network, thereby posing a major challenge to the established players in the
blower market.
In addition, the high maintenance and operating costs of
industrial air blowers, combined with limited alternatives, can restrict the
growth of the market. High fuel consumption is another factor that adds to
operational costs. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on
the market. The outbreak led to the temporary shutdown or restricted operations
of manufacturing, construction, hotel, and tourism industries on a global
scale, which, in turn, resulted in a decline in the production of air blowers.
Nonetheless, some industries, such as food and beverage, wastewater treatment
plants, and pharmaceuticals, continued to operate at full capacity, leading to
a stable service business type in the industrial air blower market. As
industries gradually resume their regular manufacturing and services, the
market is expected to recover.
Ecosystem of Blower Market
The blower market has been categorized into different
product types including positive displacement, centrifugal, high-speed turbo
blower, and regenerative. The high-speed turbo blower segment is expected to
grow the fastest during the forecast period due to its high efficiency and
ability to achieve high velocity for various operations.
The market has also been segmented based on pressure,
including up to 15 psi, 15-20 psi, and above 20 psi. The up to 15 psi segment
is projected to be the largest and fastest growing segment during the forecast
period, driven by the demand for blowers in aeration, gas treatment, dust
collection, soot removal, and pneumatic transfer applications.
In terms of end-use industry, the blower market has been
segmented into cement, steel, mining, power, chemical & petrochemicals,
pulp & paper, food & beverage, pharmaceutical, water & wastewater
treatment, and others. The food & beverage segment is expected to be the
second largest market during the forecast period.
The Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the blower
market during the forecast period, followed by North America. The Asia Pacific
region is expected to witness faster growth over the forecast period due to the
rising investments in chemical, wastewater treatment, and mining projects
across countries like China, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Japan. Indonesia is
also considered the largest country for coal production and consumption for
electricity generation, creating a huge demand for blowers in the power sector.
Additionally, the growing commercial and manufacturing sectors are expected to
drive demand for blowers over the forecast period.
The positive displacement blower category is projected to
experience the highest compound annual growth rate during the forecast period.
This is because of its consistent velocity and affordable maintenance cost. It
also enables the transportation of a significant quantity of gas, liquid, or
particles with its steady air movement at sufficient air pressure, which is
critical for the movement of food, agricultural, and pharmaceutical products.
Furthermore, positive displacement has a significant demand
in the packaging industry as it inflates packaging bags to their full capacity,
preventing spillage and ensuring that products are not underweight, resulting
in an efficient process. These factors contribute to the expansion of the
market.
The high-speed turbo blower is also expected to see growth
over the forecast period due to its superior efficiency and reliability. The
demand for high-speed turbo is also increasing because it accomplishes more
work with less energy consumption, supporting market growth. It is also
utilized in industries such as pulp & paper, chemical, cement, and mining
due to its high endurance operation, driving market growth.
The water and wastewater treatment industry is projected to
witness a significant surge in demand over the coming years. To facilitate
aeration to activated sludge and stimulate aerobic digestion, blowers are
employed, which can then be used for further usage or returned to the water
cycle after being treated. Moreover, positive displacement blowers are an
essential component in the second stage of the treatment process, aiding in
creating air bubbles for proper agitation and aeration. Integrating these
blowers in treatment plants is an energy and cost-effective solution, fueling
the growth of this industry segment.
The food and beverage industry is poised to be the
second-largest contributor to the market growth. The shift towards ready-to-eat
foods and evolving consumer eating habits is expected to drive market growth.
Additionally, blowers are used in various stages of the food and beverage
industry, including product slippage, dust removal, conveying and handling of
products, tray cleaning, drying excess products, and storing and packaging.
This usage is expected to have a positive impact on the market growth in the
forecast period.
Dominating Companies in Blower Market
- ATLAS COPCO
- INGERSOLL RAND
- KAESER KOMPRESSOREN
- AERZEN
- XYLEM
- SHANDONG ZHANGQIU BLOWER CO. LTD
- MANVAC
- REITZ GROUP
- EVEREST BLOWERS
- MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES
- SOFASCO
- PILLER BLOWERS & COMPRESSORS
- ATLANTIC BLOWERS
- HOWDEN GROUP
- DICHENG
- KAY INTERNATIONAL
- SAVIO S.R.L
- SHANDONG HUADONG BLOWER CO., LTD
- THE NEW YORK BLOWER COMPANY
- EBARA CORPORATION
- Air Control Industries Ltd.
- Airtech Blower Industries
- Atlamtic Blower
- New York Blower Company
- GP Motors
- HSI Blower
Recent Developments in Blower Market
- In 2021, Atlas Copco, a leading provider of sustainable
productivity solutions, acquired MEDGAS-Technik GmbH, a German-based company
specializing in medical air and medical vacuum systems. This acquisition
expands Atlas Copco's offerings in the medical gas equipment market, including
a range of medical blowers.
- In 2020, Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc. merged with Ingersoll
Rand's Industrial segment to create a new company called Ingersoll Rand Inc.
The merger brings together two leading industrial companies, with a combined
portfolio that includes air compressors, blowers, pumps, and more.
- In 2019, Howden, a leading manufacturer of air and gas
handling equipment, acquired Peter Brotherhood Ltd, a UK-based engineering
company specializing in steam turbines, generators, and blowers. The
acquisition enhances Howden's portfolio of products and services, particularly
in the power generation and marine industries.
- In 2018, Xylem Inc., a leading global water technology
company, acquired EmNet LLC, a provider of smart solutions for water,
wastewater, and stormwater systems. EmNet's offerings include a range of
blowers and compressors used in water treatment and management, which
complement Xylem's existing portfolio of products and services.
- In 2018, SPX Flow, a global supplier of process equipment
and solutions, acquired Copes-Vulcan, a valve and control solutions provider.
The acquisition expands SPX Flow's offerings in the power generation, oil and
gas, and industrial markets, including a range of air blowers used in power
plant applications.
- In August 2021, Airtech Vacuum announced the acquisition of
Republic Manufacturing, a US-based manufacturer of regenerative blowers and
vacuum pumps. The acquisition will help Airtech Vacuum to expand its product
portfolio and strengthen its position in the North American market.
- In November 2020, Ingersoll Rand completed the acquisition
of Precision Flow Systems, a manufacturer of engineered centrifugal and blower
technologies for industrial compressed air, gas and vacuum systems. The
acquisition will enable Ingersoll Rand to expand its product offerings in the
industrial compressed air systems market.
- In January 2020, Atlas Copco announced the acquisition of
Eurochiller, an Italian manufacturer of industrial cooling systems, including
blowers, for various applications. The acquisition will help Atlas Copco to
expand its portfolio of industrial cooling solutions and increase its presence
in the European market.
- In December 2019, Gardner Denver Holdings completed the
merger with Ingersoll-Rand's Industrial segment, which included the centrifugal
and positive displacement blower businesses. The merger created a new company
named Ingersoll Rand Inc., which offers a wide range of industrial equipment
and services, including blowers.
- In October 2019, Xylem Inc. announced a partnership with
Esri, a global leader in geographic information system (GIS) technology. The
partnership aims to provide advanced analytics and insights for water utilities
using Xylem's Flygt Asset Management and Analytics (AMA) software and Esri's
ArcGIS platform. The software utilizes sensors and data analytics to optimize
the performance of water and wastewater treatment systems, including blower
systems.
In conclusion, blowers are an essential tool for many
different industries and applications. They can help move air or gas
efficiently and effectively, making them an indispensable part of HVAC systems,
industrial processing facilities, and chemical plants. With their wide range of
sizes, configurations, and power sources, blowers can be tailored to meet the
needs of any application.