Portable Electronics Pulling Up the VCM Market

Published On: November 2022

VCM Article Brief:

By producing a sub-atmospheric pressure environment and an atomic or molecule condensable vapor source, vacuum coating is a thin-film method used to produce thin films and coatings. However, the two vacuum coating technologies deemed to be the most appealing are physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD).   With prospects in the automotive, electronics, packaging, and optical & glass sectors, the vacuum coating equipment industry has a bright future. The electronics, energy, and automotive sectors increasingly use vacuum coating equipment. Rapid technological advancements also benefit portable electronic products in numerous ways. The benefits include scratch protection and longer shelf life.  

The popularity of portable electronics and stringent regulations against dangerous synthetic compounds that prioritize the safety of workers is likely to propel market growth over the envisioned time range. The market for vacuum coating machines may be stimulated by rising end-user demand. The electronics sector will continue to be the largest application market for vacuum coating equipment throughout the forecast period, driven by increasing investment in the electronics industry considering technological advancements, including digitalization, 5G technology, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The application of vacuum coating is increasing as it is used in manufacturing microelectronic devices and as seed layers for plating.   The expansion of the solar-oriented hardware industry and the trend for various nations to reduce their emissions of byproducts from fossil fuels might spur growth and provide new market opportunities. However, a lack of qualified employees can impede the sector’s development.   Also, due to its initial low cost compared to other vacuum coating technologies and its advanced plasma coating-based deposition technology, physical vapor deposition (PVD) will experience the highest growth within the market for vacuum coating equipment globally. Its advantages include superior hardness, robust wear protection, oxidation resistance, and low friction values.  

CNBM Group had previously received creation equipment from SINGULUS TECHNOLOGIES to construct CIGS thin film solar-powered modules. Another further participation has been agreed upon for the current CdTe thin film solar cell application area. In addition to the four currently operational CIGS locations, CNBM envisions a few additional production locations for CdTe sun-oriented cells with a combined result volume exceeding one gigawatt.   These businesses employ several techniques, including acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, the development of innovative products, and distribution agreements, to capture a significant portion of the market. The study provides in-depth profiles of these market participants and evaluates their position in the industry.   

Advantages of Vacuum Coating  

Vacuum coating makes the surface delicate and provides a wonderful metal texture. Water electroplating has a few varieties of bright silver and silver colors and can address problems of seven hues, such as magic blue and silver flash bulbs. Vacuum coating provides more choice of base material, and the option list is broad, including PC, ABS, and PMMA (the only options available for water plating are ABS and ABS + PC). Light can be emitted from the product by creating a semi-transparent appearance with an indium tin coating. It also helps prevent the contamination of the ecosystem.   

Disadvantages  

Target materials for evaporation plating are constrained by their melting points, making it difficult to employ them if their melting points are too high. Vacuum evaporation cannot be covered with UV oil, which results in poor adhesion. Following vacuum evaporation, a specific spraying treatment should be performed to ensure adherence.   

Vacuum coating machines are used in sectors like electronics, automotive, optics & glass, and packaging and are projected to extend at a CAGR of around 6% in the coming 3-4 years.