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Welcome to this week’s edition of the Thomas Index Report.
Since its inception over a century ago, the automobile industry has remained the epitome of manufacturing automation. As a longtime leader in innovation, the industry is making significant strides in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies – contributing greatly to its market dominance.
According to recent reports by IBIS World, the global car and automobile market is expected to be valued at $2.9 trillion in 2022, making it number one in the global manufacturing industry by market size.
In terms of innovation, atomization is one area that we see an increase in sourcing activity. Used in a range of industries, atomization allows for more precise and cost-effective application of paint in high volume production lines. According to the Atomization Technology Innovation Consortium (ATIC), an estimated 19,500 companies in the US manufacture or use nuclear products and sprays.
Given the high potential for increased efficiency, it is not surprising to see that the auto industry is quick to integrate these technologies into the application of high-gloss bodywork finishes. The use of robotic atomizers provides greater flexibility in implementing two-tone applications, allowing manufacturers to meet growing consumer demand for more customized car features.
There are also many environmental benefits associated with these new technologies. A major advantage is the accuracy afforded by robotic atomization, which dramatically reduces overspray – saving both energy and time. Additionally, new coating technologies allow anti-corrosion and protective paint to be atomized, contributing to more durable and longer-lasting vehicles.
Taking the innovation further, Toyota Motor Corporation has developed an airless paint atomizer that uses static electricity instead of air, achieving a coating efficiency of over 95%. By deploying airless paint atomizers in its production process, the Toyota Group announced that it is projected to reduce future carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 7%.
Overall, atomization technologies continue to enhance the global competitiveness of the US auto industry and benefit many value-added end-user industries. Given its many game-changing applications, we see a huge jump in related sourcing activity on the ThomasNet.com platform. Automotive parts sourcing is up 585% quarter-on-quarter and 109% year-over-year.
I’m Kathy Ma, and this is the Thomas Index report.
Top 10 categories with the most sourcing activity month by month
- Palletizer: 9866.7%
- Ferrule: 7800.0%
- Generator: Industrial: 6666.7%
- Material Handling Equipment: Bulk: 6400.0%
- Label: Pressure Sensitive: 5029.4%
- Cable Assembly: 3892.1%
- Electronics: Aerospace: 3741.7%
- Testing Services: Medical Equipment: 3740.0%
- Molds: 3249.0%
- Sealant: 2666.7%
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image credit: TIR