Circuit protection market down in 2013

Summary

February 24, 2014 - The world market for miniature circuit breakers and residual current devices (MCBs and RCDs) is projected to be worth nearly $10 billion in 2018, according to a recently released report by IHS.   According to analyst, Toby Colquhoun, “The MCB and RCD market barely grew in 2013, relative to 2012, which was difficult for many suppliers. IHS projects a broad based recovery in 2014: MCBs and RCDs are ubiquitous in a wide variety of industries. The residential sector is the most important destination for these components and a recovery in the housing market, especially in the United States, will sustain high levels of industry growth. That said: all sectors are projected to grow, in particular the machine builder sector.   “Although the product category has a reputation to be a little staid, upcoming challenges facing the market are: the introduction of AFCI products to the IEC world, competition from Chinese suppliers and the influence of electronic solid-state components”.   Findings from the 2014 report include: • Schneider Electric, Siemens, Eaton and ABB were the leading suppliers to this market in 2012. • MCB growth is projected to outpace RCD growth as countries which mandate relatively little RCD protection, will grow best. • RCBOs, which combine an MCB and RCD in one package, are projected to grow well – especially in Oceania and Western Europe – but from a low base.