Automatic Motor Starters

Automatic Motor Starters Market Outlook

The global automatic motor starters market is anticipated to reach USD 8.5 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. This growth can be attributed to the increasing need for efficient motor control solutions in industrial applications, the rise in automation across various sectors, and the growing emphasis on energy conservation. Additionally, advancements in technology related to motor starters, such as the development of solid-state starters, are expected to further propel market expansion. The ongoing investments in infrastructure, particularly in energy-intensive industries such as oil & gas and manufacturing, are also projected to contribute significantly to market growth in the coming years. Moreover, the adoption of smart grid technologies and initiatives aimed at enhancing electrical efficiency will serve as a catalyst for the proliferation of automatic motor starters.

Growth Factor of the Market

The automatic motor starters market is primarily driven by the rapid industrialization and urbanization across the globe, which has led to increased demand for efficient and reliable motor control solutions. Furthermore, the rise in initiatives focusing on energy efficiency in industrial processes has created a significant need for advanced motor starter technologies that can optimize power usage. The growing automotive and manufacturing sectors are also contributing to market growth as they adopt automation to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. Another key factor is the technological advancements in motor starter systems, such as the introduction of smart motor starters and integrated control systems, which improve operational efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. Additionally, the expansion of the oil & gas and mining industries is expected to drive the demand for robust motor control solutions, thereby fueling the overall market growth.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The global market is projected to reach USD 8.5 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 6.5%.
• Technological advancements in smart motor control systems are enhancing operational efficiency.
• Rising energy efficiency initiatives are driving the adoption of automatic motor starters.
• Industrialization and urbanization are major contributors to market growth.
• Significant demand from the oil & gas, automotive, and manufacturing sectors.

By Product Type

Full Voltage Starters:

Full voltage starters are the most common type of automatic motor starters used across various industries. These starters apply the full line voltage to the motor terminals when starting, allowing for immediate full torque. They are particularly favored for applications where the load does not require a reduced starting torque. Full voltage starters are widely used in fan and pump applications, where the load characteristics are more straightforward. Their simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness contribute to their dominance in the automatic motor starters market. Moreover, they are typically easier to install and maintain, making them an attractive option for many end-users.

Reduced Voltage Starters:

Reduced voltage starters are designed to limit the voltage supplied to the motor during startup, which helps to decrease the starting current and reduce electrical stress on the motor and the power supply system. These starters are particularly beneficial for larger motors, where high starting currents can lead to voltage drops that may affect other equipment connected to the same supply. Common implementations of reduced voltage starters include star-delta starters and autotransformer starters, which are widely used in applications such as conveyors and crushers. The ability to mitigate starting issues and prolong equipment life enhances the appeal of reduced voltage starters in various industrial settings.

Reversing Starters:

Reversing starters are specialized motor starters that allow for the reversal of motor direction, which is essential for certain applications such as conveyors and hoists. These starters utilize a combination of contactors and relays to switch the polarity of the motor, enabling forward and reverse operation. The demand for reversing starters is particularly strong in industries like manufacturing and material handling, where directional control is critical. Additionally, the safety features integrated into modern reversing starters, which prevent accidental operation during switchovers, further enhance their marketability and adoption in various sectors.

Two-Speed Starters:

Two-speed starters are designed to control motors that operate at two different speeds, providing operational flexibility for various applications. These starters are commonly used in scenarios where varying speeds are necessary for efficient operation, such as in pumps and fans. The ability to switch between speeds allows for better process optimization, energy savings, and improved system performance. The increasing focus on energy-efficient solutions in industrial operations is driving the demand for two-speed starters, as they enable end-users to adapt motor performance to specific operational requirements while minimizing energy consumption.

Solid State Starters:

Solid-state starters utilize semiconductor devices to control the starting and stopping of motors, offering advantages such as reduced electrical stress on the motor and longer service life. These starters are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide smooth starting and stopping without torque shocks, which can significantly enhance the longevity of both the motor and the connected load. The growing trend toward automation and the need for reliable motor control solutions in industrial applications are propelling the demand for solid-state starters. As industries look to minimize maintenance costs and maximize operational efficiency, solid-state starters are expected to play a crucial role in the evolving landscape of motor control technologies.

By Application

Oil & Gas:

The oil and gas industry is one of the largest consumers of automatic motor starters due to its reliance on heavy machinery and equipment that require robust motor control. Automatic motor starters are essential for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of pumps, compressors, and other critical equipment used in drilling, refining, and transportation processes. The increasing exploration and production activities, coupled with the need for energy-efficient solutions, are driving the demand for advanced motor starters in this sector. Moreover, the push for automation and digitalization in oil and gas operations is further enhancing the growth of this segment as companies seek to improve reliability and reduce downtime.

Water & Wastewater:

In the water and wastewater management sector, automatic motor starters are crucial for the operation of pumps and treatment facilities. These systems require reliable motor control solutions to manage the flow of water and ensure proper treatment processes. The growing population and urbanization are resulting in increased demand for efficient water supply and wastewater treatment systems, thereby boosting the need for automatic motor starters. Additionally, regulatory pressures to improve water quality and reduce environmental impacts are driving investments in modernized infrastructure, which includes advanced motor control technologies. The emphasis on sustainability and efficiency is expected to further propel the growth of automatic motor starters in this application.

Mining:

The mining industry utilizes automatic motor starters extensively for various applications, including conveyor systems, crushers, and drilling equipment. The harsh environments and demanding conditions in which mining operations are conducted necessitate reliable and robust motor control solutions. Automatic motor starters help in managing the high starting torque required by large motors operating heavy machinery, thereby ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear and tear on equipment. As the demand for minerals and resources continues to rise globally, investments in mining operations are expected to increase, consequently driving the demand for automatic motor starters in this sector.

Automotive:

The automotive industry relies on automatic motor starters for a variety of applications, including assembly line machinery and robotic systems. As automotive manufacturers increasingly automate production processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the demand for reliable motor control solutions is expected to grow. Automatic motor starters play a vital role in ensuring that machinery operates smoothly and effectively, minimizing downtime and boosting productivity. Furthermore, the shift towards electric vehicles is also creating new opportunities for motor starter technologies, as they will be essential in controlling new electric motor designs within these vehicles.

Manufacturing:

In the manufacturing sector, automatic motor starters are indispensable for controlling a wide range of machinery, from small power tools to large industrial equipment. The need for efficient and reliable motor control is crucial to maintaining production schedules and minimizing operational costs. As manufacturers seek to improve their operations through automation and advanced technologies, the demand for automatic motor starters is expected to rise. The increasing focus on lean manufacturing practices and energy efficiency is further propelling investments in motor control systems, making this application segment a significant contributor to market growth.

By Distribution Channel

Direct Sales:

Direct sales channels play a vital role in the distribution of automatic motor starters, allowing manufacturers to engage directly with end-users and provide tailored solutions to meet specific operational needs. This approach fosters strong relationships between manufacturers and customers, enabling better communication regarding product features and technical support. Direct sales are particularly valuable in large-scale projects where businesses require detailed consultations and customized solutions. Furthermore, manufacturers can offer benefits such as training, installation services, and after-sales support, which enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Indirect Sales:

Indirect sales channels encompass distributors, wholesalers, and retailers who act as intermediaries between manufacturers and end-users. This distribution method allows for a broader reach, making automatic motor starters more accessible to various market segments. Indirect sales are essential for smaller businesses that may not have the resources or expertise to engage directly with manufacturers. By leveraging established distribution networks, manufacturers can extend their market presence and increase sales volumes. Additionally, indirect sales channels often provide value-added services such as inventory management and technical support, further enhancing their appeal in the marketplace.

By Control Voltage

Up to 240V:

Automatic motor starters with control voltages up to 240V are widely used in residential and light commercial applications. This voltage range is typically suitable for small to medium-sized motors, making it a popular choice for applications such as HVAC systems, small pumps, and fans. The demand for starters in this voltage range is driven by the increasing number of residential and commercial buildings requiring reliable motor control solutions. The simplicity and affordability of these starters also contribute to their widespread adoption across various sectors.

240V to 480V:

Motor starters operating within the 240V to 480V range are most commonly used in industrial applications where medium-sized motors are prevalent. This category encompasses a wide variety of applications, including manufacturing equipment, pumps, and compressors. The demand for starters in this voltage range is fueled by the growing industrial sector and the need for efficient motor control solutions that can handle higher loads. The ability to provide reliable performance while minimizing power consumption makes these starters particularly attractive to businesses seeking to improve operational efficiency.

Above 480V:

Starters designed for voltages above 480V are utilized in heavy-duty industrial applications, such as large motors driving crushers, mills, and other heavy machinery. These starters are essential in sectors where high power and torque are required, including mining, oil and gas, and heavy manufacturing. As industries continue to expand and upgrade their facilities, the demand for starters in this voltage range is expected to grow. The development of advanced technologies that enhance the performance and reliability of these starters will further support market expansion in this segment.

By Region

North America is expected to dominate the automatic motor starters market, accounting for approximately 35% of the global share by 2035. The region's advanced industrial base, coupled with ongoing investments in automation and energy efficiency, drives the demand for reliable motor control solutions. The growth of sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and water management contributes significantly to this market segment. Additionally, the presence of key players and innovative technology developments in North America bolster the market growth in this region. With a projected CAGR of 6% during the forecast period, North America is poised for sustained growth in the coming years.

Europe follows closely, holding an estimated 30% market share by 2035. The region is witnessing substantial investments in smart manufacturing and infrastructure modernization, leading to an increased demand for automatic motor starters. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are at the forefront of these developments, with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. As the European Union implements stringent regulations on energy consumption, the adoption of advanced motor control technologies is expected to rise. The anticipated CAGR for Europe is around 5.8%, reflecting steady growth driven by technological advancements and increasing industrial automation.

Opportunities

The automatic motor starters market is poised for considerable growth due to several emerging opportunities. The rapid advancement of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming traditional manufacturing processes. As industries embrace smart technologies, the need for advanced motor control solutions that can integrate with IoT devices is becoming paramount. Automatic motor starters equipped with smart features can provide real-time monitoring and control, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime. This trend presents manufacturers with the opportunity to innovate and develop smarter motor control solutions that cater to the evolving needs of various sectors. Furthermore, the increasing focus on green initiatives and sustainability is pushing industries to adopt energy-efficient solutions, creating additional demand for automatic motor starters that minimize energy consumption.

Another significant opportunity lies in the expansion of renewable energy sources globally. As the shift towards clean energy continues, the demand for automatic motor starters in applications such as wind and solar energy systems is expected to grow. These systems require robust motor control solutions to ensure optimal performance and reliability. The integration of automatic motor starters into renewable energy applications presents a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers to diversify their product offerings and tap into new market segments. Moreover, the growing emphasis on automation in various industries, including logistics and transportation, is likely to reinforce the demand for automatic motor starters, as businesses seek to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs.

Threats

The automatic motor starters market faces several threats that could potentially hinder its growth trajectory. One of the primary challenges is the intense competition within the industry, with numerous players vying for market share. This competition often leads to price wars, which can squeeze profit margins and impact the financial viability of companies. Furthermore, the rapid technological advancements necessitate continuous investment in research and development to remain competitive. Companies that fail to keep up with evolving technologies may lose market relevance, undermining their long-term sustainability. Additionally, the fluctuating prices of raw materials used in the manufacturing of motor starters can pose a significant threat to profitability, as increases in these costs may compel manufacturers to raise prices, potentially leading to decreased demand.

Another substantial threat is the growing trend towards alternative solutions for motor control, such as variable frequency drives (VFDs). VFDs offer advanced control capabilities and energy savings that can outpace traditional motor starters. As industries increasingly recognize the benefits of VFDs, the demand for conventional motor starters may decline. Companies operating in the automatic motor starters market must address this shift by innovating and enhancing their product offerings to remain relevant. Furthermore, regulatory changes aimed at reducing energy consumption and environmental impact may impose additional compliance costs on manufacturers, potentially complicating their operational frameworks.

Competitor Outlook

• Siemens AG
• Schneider Electric
• General Electric (GE)
• Rockwell Automation
• Eaton Corporation
• ABB Ltd.
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
• Emerson Electric Co.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Panasonic Corporation
• WEG Industries
• Schurter AG
• Legrand S.A.
• Omron Corporation
• Yaskawa Electric Corporation

The automatic motor starters market is characterized by a diverse competitive landscape comprising several key players, each vying for a significant share of the market. Companies like Siemens AG and Schneider Electric are at the forefront of innovation, investing heavily in research and development to create advanced motor control solutions that meet the growing demands of industries. These companies leverage their extensive distribution networks and brand reputation to capture market share and expand their global footprint. Additionally, the focus on sustainability and energy efficiency among consumers is shifting the competitive dynamics, prompting manufacturers to enhance their offerings with eco-friendly solutions and smart features that align with current market trends.

General Electric (GE) and Rockwell Automation are also critical players in the market, known for their robust portfolio of motor control products. These companies are actively pursuing strategic partnerships and collaborations to foster innovation and develop cutting-edge technologies. The integration of IoT capabilities into automatic motor starters has become a focal point for several competitors, allowing them to offer real-time monitoring and control features. As a result, companies that quickly adopt digital technologies and integrate them into their product lines will likely gain a competitive edge in the market, positioning themselves as leaders in the industry.

In addition to these major players, several other manufacturers, such as Eaton Corporation and ABB Ltd., are making significant strides in the market. These companies focus on expanding their global presence through strategic mergers and acquisitions, further consolidating their positions. Additionally, they are investing in enhancing their manufacturing capabilities and customer service to meet the diverse needs of end-users. As the demand for automatic motor starters continues to rise, the competitive landscape will likely evolve, necessitating sustained innovation and adaptability among all players in the sector.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 ABB Ltd.
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Siemens AG
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Schurter AG
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 Legrand S.A.
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 WEG Industries
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Eaton Corporation
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 Omron Corporation
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Schneider Electric
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Rockwell Automation
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Emerson Electric Co.
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 General Electric (GE)
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Panasonic Corporation
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 Honeywell International Inc.
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Yaskawa Electric Corporation
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Automatic Motor Starters Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Oil & Gas
    • 6.1.2 Water & Wastewater
    • 6.1.3 Mining
    • 6.1.4 Automotive
    • 6.1.5 Manufacturing
  • 6.2 Automatic Motor Starters Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Full Voltage Starters
    • 6.2.2 Reduced Voltage Starters
    • 6.2.3 Reversing Starters
    • 6.2.4 Two-Speed Starters
    • 6.2.5 Solid State Starters
  • 6.3 Automatic Motor Starters Market, By Control Voltage
    • 6.3.1 Up to 240V
    • 6.3.2 240V to 480V
    • 6.3.3 Above 480V
  • 6.4 Automatic Motor Starters Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Direct Sales
    • 6.4.2 Indirect Sales

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.5.1 By Country
      • 10.5.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.5.1.2 Africa
  • 10.6 Automatic Motor Starters Market by Region

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Automatic Motor Starters market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Full Voltage Starters
• Reduced Voltage Starters
• Reversing Starters
• Two-Speed Starters
• Solid State Starters

By Application

• Oil & Gas
• Water & Wastewater
• Mining
• Automotive
• Manufacturing

By Distribution Channel

• Direct Sales
• Indirect Sales

By Control Voltage

• Up to 240V
• 240V to 480V
• Above 480V

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Siemens AG
• Schneider Electric
• General Electric (GE)
• Rockwell Automation
• Eaton Corporation
• ABB Ltd.
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
• Emerson Electric Co.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Panasonic Corporation
• WEG Industries
• Schurter AG
• Legrand S.A.
• Omron Corporation
• Yaskawa Electric Corporation