The evolution of the electronics industry

This article delves into PCBs' uses, market expansion, governmental strategies, additive manufacturing's impact, and Botfactory's strategic direction.

PCB market segmentation and uses

The PCB market comprises primarily Rigid PCBs and Flexible circuits. Rigid PCBs are integral to industrial machines and automotive systems, while Flexible circuits are pivotal in wearable tech and compact medical devices.

Sector-driven PCB applications

PCBs facilitate functionalities across sectors:

• Consumer electronics: vital for smartphones and wearables.
• Automotive: crucial for digital displays and electric vehicle parts.
• Aerospace and defence: ensures reliability in communication and navigation.
• Industrial automation: drives robots and IoT devices, boosting productivity.

Market trends and projections

The global PCB market is expected to reach £128 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.66%. The below infographic illustrates the industry breakdown.

Growth in printed electronics

The printed electronics sector is set to grow from £9.9 billion in 2021 to £23.0 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 18.3%.

Regional market dynamics

The below infographic presents 2023's market distribution, highlighting Asia Pacific's leading CAGR and contributions from North America and Europe. Latin America and MEA are gaining momentum across various sectors.

Government investments

The US has allocated over £200 million for PCB research and development, with policies spurring a 15% uplift in local production. Additive manufacturing, projected to grow by 20%, is transforming the industry.

Additive manufacturing's industry impact

Additive Manufacturing of Electronics (AME) is set to revolutionise production, cutting time by 30% and costs by 25%. The AME market could hit £3 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 22%.

Botfactory's pivotal position

Botfactory's SV2 PCBA printer is an additive manufacturing innovator, with 700 units sold and 10,000 boards printed in 2023. The company's alignment with sustainable and efficient production mirrors wider industry trends.

Conclusion

Technological innovations, market entrants, government backing, and new manufacturing methods shape the PCB industry. The shift towards additive manufacturing highlights a broader industry move towards innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. With companies like Botfactory at the forefront, the industry's future is promising, marked by continuous improvement and excellence.