Linear Motor Market Forecast 2023 - 2030

By Shape :

The shape segment is classified into U-channel linear motor, flat-type linear motor, and cylindrical linear motor. Flat linear motors accounted for the largest market share of 52.09% in 2022 as the motors offer higher power density and deliver more power in a smaller footprint. Additionally, flat linear motors have lower friction compared to other linear motor designs, resulting in a smoother and more precise motion. Moreover, the advancements in technology including the integration of NdFeB magnets with the motor to prevent rotor loss and promote high speed is further contributing to the market growth. For instance, in August 2019, Oswald Elektromotoren GmbH launched LE flat linear motor with an electric direct drive to provide high power density. Furthermore, the advanced linear motor is equipped with NdFeB magnet to prevent rotor loss, thus contributing remarkably in boosting the growth of the flat linear motor segment.

U-channel linear motors are predicted to witness the fastest CAGR in the upcoming years. U-channel linear motors offer a more cost-effective solution compared to flat linear motors. Additionally, U-channel linear motors are relatively easy to integrate into existing systems and structures, thus becoming a viable option for retrofitting or upgrading older equipment and machinery. Moreover, U-channel linear motors provide substantial force output, suitable for applications that require heavy-duty operation including material handling, metal cutting, and industrial automation. Furthermore, the motors are designed to accommodate various lengths and configurations, offering improved reliability and reduced maintenance requirements. Consequently, the aforementioned factors are expected to bolster the growth of U-channel linear motors during the forecast period.

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By Core :

The core segment is divided into iron core linear motor and ironless linear motor. Iron core linear motors accounted for the largest market share in 2022 as the motors provide high force and power density, suitable for applications including industrial automation, machine tools, and other heavy-duty applications. In addition, iron-cored linear motors offer a cost-effective solution compared to other types of linear motors, especially for applications that demand high-force output. The construction and materials used to manufacture iron-cored motors are less expensive, further contributing to the dominance of the segment. Moreover, the growing adoption of iron-cored linear motors in numerous industries including manufacturing, semiconductor processing, and packaging due to the ability to deliver high force and precise motion is also driving the market growth. Subsequently, the above-mentioned factors are collectively responsible in accelerating the growth of the iron-cored linear motors segment.

Ironless linear motors are predicted to register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The growth is attributed to the lower moving mass of ironless motors, resulting in lower inertia, and allowing for faster acceleration and deceleration. Additionally, coreless linear motors offer higher efficiency compared to iron-cored motors due to the absence of an iron core. The elimination of iron losses and eddy currents leads to improved energy efficiency, ideal for applications where energy consumption is a critical concern. Moreover, ironless motors also eliminate cogging, resulting in a smooth motion, hence projected to fuel the market growth in upcoming years. For instance, in May 2021, nPoint launched the nPL70 family of ironless linear motors for applications that require high-speed sample positioning and scanning. The advanced ironless linear motor is coupled with unique windings, eliminating cogging while sustaining high force density and smooth motion, hence projected to promote the growth of the ironless linear motor segment.

By Axis :

The axis segment is bifurcated into single-axis and multi-axis. Single-axis linear motors accounted for the largest market share in 2022 as the motors offer a direct, one-dimensional motion along a single axis and are convenient to integrate into existing systems. Additionally, single-axis linear motors are more cost-effective compared to other complex motion systems, thus contributing to reduced manufacturing and maintenance costs. Moreover, the increasing adoption of single-axis linear motors in various applications including conveyor systems, cutting machines, and other automated processes is also spurring the market growth. In conclusion, the aforementioned factors are collectively contributing notably in driving the growth of the single-axis segment.

The multi-axis segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR in the linear motor market during the forecast period. The growth of the market is endorsed by the ability of multi-axis linear motors to allow simultaneous control of motion in multiple directions, providing versatility and flexibility in various applications. Additionally, multi-axis linear motors offer higher degrees of freedom compared to single-axis linear motors suitable for applications namely robotics, 3D printing, and advanced manufacturing. Moreover, multi-axis linear motors also reduce the size and weight and increase the speed of the equipment, further contributing to market growth. For instance, in April 2022, Sanyo Denki Co., Ltd. developed ANMOTION multi-axis integrated linear motor unit. The motor consists of a 4-axis unit, which is easily customized, and suitable for semiconductor manufacturing and inspection equipment. In conclusion, the ability of multi-axis linear motors to offer improved flexibility and enabling simultaneous control of motion in multiple directions is anticipated to accelerate the market growth.

By Distribution Channel :

The distribution channel is classified into direct OEMs, distributors, and direct system integrators. Direct OEMs accounted for the largest market share in 2022 as OEMs have strong brand identities and reputations in the industry. Customers trust their products and solutions and prefer buying directly from the OEM to ensure product authenticity and reliability. Additionally, by purchasing directly from the OEM, customers have quicker access to technical support, after-sales service, and warranty assistance. Direct communication with the manufacturer leads to faster issue resolution and reduced downtime. Moreover, dealing directly with the OEM allows customers to negotiate pricing and terms directly, potentially leading to better pricing and cost control. In conclusion, the aforementioned factors are contributing substantially in propelling the growth of the direct OEMs segment.

Distributors are projected to witness the fastest CAGR in the linear motor market during the forecast period. Distributors often have an established network of customers and contacts, allowing manufacturers to reach new markets and customer segments. Additionally, distributors tap into local markets, cultural nuances, and customer preferences, helping manufacturers to expand their global presence. Moreover, distributors possess valuable market knowledge, insights, and expertise, which help manufacturers tailor the products and marketing strategies to meet specific regional or industry requirements. Furthermore, distributors have established sales and distribution channels, offering convenience to manufacturers to get the products to market quickly and efficiently, hence predicted to fuel the market growth in the upcoming years.

By Application :

The application segment is categorized into wafer and die level packaging, process control, machine tooling, robotics, photovoltaic, optics, medical instruments, and others. Machine tooling holds the maximum market share in 2022 as linear motors are integrated into conveyors and transfer systems, allowing for the efficient movement of products along the assembly line. The motor enables smooth and continuous motion, reducing the risk of jams and improving overall throughput. Additionally, linear motors are employed in testing and inspection stations to move test probes and inspection tools precisely over products, ensuring thorough testing and quality control. Furthermore, the motors also enable precise movement of adhesive dispensing or gluing heads, ensuring accurate and consistent application of adhesives in assembly processes. Consequently, the ability of linear motors to offer the above-mentioned benefits in machine tooling is driving the growth of the market.

Robotics is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR in the linear motor market during the forecast period. The growth of the market is credited to the ability of motors to drive the linear motion of robotic arms and manipulators. The motors provide smooth and precise movement, allowing robots to pick and place objects with high accuracy. Additionally, linear motors are deployed in gantry systems to provide the linear motion required for moving heavy loads or performing tasks that cover a large workspace. Moreover, the growing adoption of robotic linear motions in various industries including food and beverage to optimize production and perform high-speed picking and placing tasks is further contributing to the market growth. For instance, in July 2023, LinMot USA introduced robotic linear motion solutions for the food and beverage industry at PACK EXPO in Las Vegas. The linear motion robotic solution was launched to optimize production to meet sustainability goals, thus expected to bolster market growth.

By Region :

The regional segment includes North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America holds the largest market share in the linear motor market due to the expanding manufacturing, electronics, and automation sector that increases the adoption of advanced linear motor technologies in the region. Additionally, the region has a diverse industrial base, encompassing sectors namely automotive, semiconductor, and healthcare, further raising the demand for linear motors to improve productivity, precision, and efficiency in the production processes. For instance, in July 2019, Parker Hannifin Corporation launched Parker LM-Pro linear motor for respiratory and anesthesia markets. The Parker LM-Pro utilizes linear motor technology to enable flow up to 540 SLPM to provide resolution at lower power consumption than traditional solenoids, hence driving the adoption of linear motors in the North American region.

Asia Pacific accounted for USD 425.60 million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 715.29 million in the linear motor market during the forecast period. In addition, in the region, China accounted for the maximum revenue share of 29.3% in the year 2022. The growth is attributed to the expanding electronics and semiconductor industry in countries including China, India, and South Korea. The expansion in the electronics industry raises the demand for advanced linear motors to improve the production and operation efficiency of machines. Additionally, the presence of key players in the region including Yaskawa Electric Corporation and Beijing Leadshine Technology Co., Ltd, investing heavily in research and development to launch innovative linear motors is also propelling the market growth. In conclusion, the expanding electronics sector, and the presence of key players in the region are projected to accelerate the growth of the market in Asia Pacific countries.