1 Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Insight Analysis
The global Thin Film Capacitor market is valued at USD 4,612.55 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.17% during 2024-2033.
Thin Film Capacitor are a two pad device for storing a charge of electricity. These devices are composed of thin film layers deposited on a substrate and separated by a dielectric. This film is made extremely thin using a sophisticated film drawing process. Once the film is manufactured, it may be metallized or left untreated, depending on the needed properties of the capacitor. Electrodes are then added and the assembly is mounted into a case which protects it from environmental factors.
Figure Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Thin Film Capacitor Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
Film capacitors are widely used in many fields because they use different dielectric film materials. For example, polyester film is used to produce DC capacitors, which are suitable for products with high electronic integration; polypropylene film is used for AC capacitors, which play a role in electronics, home appliances, communications and power.
Its outstanding performance, such as long life, high withstand voltage, wide frequency response and good temperature characteristics, makes it widely used in circuits such as rectifiers, inverters, inverters, as well as home appliances and power supplies such as air conditioners and refrigerators. In addition, the heat resistance of PTFE film capacitors enables it to be used in aerospace and military technology. The continued demand in these downstream markets has driven the growth of the film capacitor market.
With the development of Internet and communication technology, consumer electronics products are constantly being innovated, and consumer demand for communication electronics products continues to rise. The rise of 5G technology supports more connected devices, improves product and service quality, stimulates the demand for capacitors in tablets, smart phones and laptops, and thus drives the development of the film capacitor market.
In recent years, the rise of new energy industries such as wind power, photovoltaics and new energy vehicles has created new opportunities for film capacitors. The AC/DC conversion and high and low voltage buffering requirements in the new energy field make film capacitors with high reliability, voltage resistance and impact resistance the first choice. For example, as DC support capacitors in new energy vehicles, they have obvious advantages over aluminum electrolytic capacitors. The rapid development of the new energy industry has greatly stimulated the market demand for film capacitors.
The prices of the main raw materials for the production of film capacitors, such as polypropylene resin and polyester chips, are closely related to the international crude oil prices. In recent years, the prices of raw materials have risen significantly. For example, the average price of global polypropylene has risen sharply in 2021. The fluctuation of raw material prices increases production costs, brings cost pressure to enterprises, and is not conducive to the stable development of the film capacitor industry.
3 Technological Innovations in the Thin Film Capacitor Market
The application of different materials enables film capacitors to have diverse performance. For example, PTFE film capacitors meet the needs of special fields such as aerospace and military with their heat resistance; polyester film and polypropylene film play a key role in the production of DC and AC capacitors respectively. With the development of materials science, new high-performance materials are constantly being developed for film capacitor manufacturing to improve product performance.
The advancement of manufacturing technology has improved the production efficiency and quality of film capacitors. For example, the emergence of metallized film and metal segmentation technology has made film capacitors smaller and cheaper, enhancing their competitiveness in the market and expanding their application range. At the same time, automation and refined control in the production process also help to improve product consistency and stability.
The film capacitor market is highly competitive, and companies have achieved resource integration and scale expansion through mergers and acquisitions. For example, KYOCERA AVX acquired ROHM Semiconductor’s tantalum and polymer capacitor business assets, further expanding its product portfolio in the field of electrolytic capacitor solutions; Vishay Intertechnology acquired Barry Industries to expand its high-frequency and high-power resistor technology. These mergers and acquisitions help companies increase their market share and enhance their overall competitiveness.
4 Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size by Type
Polyester film capacitors are anticipated to hold a substantial market share in 2024. These capacitors are known for their high capacitance per unit volume and are widely used in electronic circuits due to their stability and reliability. In 2024, the market revenue for polyester film capacitors is expected to reach $1230.64 million USD, representing a significant portion of the total market. Their applications span across consumer electronics, power electronics, and industrial equipment, making them a versatile choice for manufacturers.
Metallized film capacitors, characterized by their self-healing properties and high reliability, are also expected to perform well in 2024. These capacitors are used in applications requiring high current and voltage handling capabilities. The market revenue for metallized film capacitors in 2024 is projected to be $633.32 million USD. Their applications include power supplies, inverters, and high-frequency circuits, contributing to their significant market share.
Polypropylene film capacitors are renowned for their high voltage resistance and low loss characteristics. These capacitors are widely used in power electronics and high-frequency applications. In 2024, the market revenue for polypropylene film capacitors is expected to be $1847.28 million USD. Their applications in power conditioning, motor control, and renewable energy systems make them a critical component in modern electronics.
PTFE film capacitors, known for their excellent temperature stability and high insulation resistance, are expected to have a market revenue of $309.97 million USD in 2024. These capacitors are used in aerospace, military, and high-temperature applications where reliability and performance are paramount. Their unique properties make them indispensable in critical applications, ensuring a steady market share.
Polystyrene film capacitors, characterized by their high precision and stability, are expected to have a market revenue of $203.01 million USD in 2024. These capacitors are used in applications requiring high precision, such as audio equipment and precision instruments. Their market share is influenced by the demand for high-quality, stable capacitors in specialized applications.
Table Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Polyester Film | 1230.64 |
Metallized Film | 633.32 |
Polypropylene Film | 1847.28 |
PTFE Film | 309.97 |
Polystyrene Film | 203.01 |
Others | 388.33 |
5 Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size by Application
In the electronic application segment, the revenue in 2024 reached 1343.80 M USD, accounting for a market share of 29.13%. This significant revenue is due to the widespread use of thin – film capacitors in a multitude of electronic devices. From small – scale consumer electronics like smartphones and tablets to large – scale industrial electronics, thin – film capacitors play a crucial role in ensuring stable electrical performance. For example, in power electronics, they are used for DC support, voltage absorption, and filtering, which are essential for the proper functioning of electronic systems.
The communication application had a revenue of 308.65 M USD in 2024, with a market share of 6.69%. As the communication industry continues to evolve, especially with the expansion of 5G technology, the demand for thin – film capacitors has been on the rise. These capacitors are used in telecommunications equipment to ensure reliable signal transmission and reception. Their ability to handle high – frequency signals and maintain stability makes them an ideal choice for communication devices.
The aerospace application had a relatively smaller revenue of 52.29 M USD in 2024, but it still holds an important position with a market share of 1.13%. In the aerospace industry, thin – film capacitors are used in various electronic systems on aircraft and spacecraft. They need to withstand extreme environmental conditions such as high temperatures, radiation, and mechanical stress. Their high – reliability and excellent performance characteristics make them suitable for these demanding applications.
The military application had a revenue of 44.76 M USD in 2024, accounting for 0.97% of the market share. Thin – film capacitors are used in a wide range of military equipment, including ships, aviation, and weapons systems. Their reliability and ability to perform under harsh conditions are critical for military applications, where failure can have serious consequences.
The household appliances segment had a revenue of 430.10 M USD in 2024, with a market share of 9.32%. Thin – film capacitors are commonly used in home appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines. They help in the efficient operation of these appliances by providing functions like motor starting, charging/discharging, and noise suppression.
The automotive application is a significant contributor to the thin – film capacitor market. In 2024, it had a revenue of 1082.55 M USD, making up 23.47% of the market share. With the growth of the automotive industry, especially in the development of electric vehicles, the demand for thin – film capacitors has soared. They are used in on – board inverters, on – board chargers, and charging piles, which are essential components for electric vehicles.
The new energy application had a revenue of 983.12 M USD in 2024, with a market share of 21.31%. The rise of renewable energy sources such as wind power and photovoltaics, as well as the development of new energy vehicles, has driven the demand for thin – film capacitors. In these applications, the capacitors are used for energy storage and conversion, which are key processes in new energy systems.
Table Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Electronic | 1343.80 | 29.13% |
Communication | 308.65 | 6.69% |
Aerospace | 52.29 | 1.13% |
Military | 44.76 | 0.97% |
Household Appliances | 430.10 | 9.32% |
Automotive | 1082.55 | 23.47% |
New Energy | 983.12 | 21.31% |
Others | 367.29 | 7.96% |
6 Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size by Region
North America had a market revenue of 531.81 M USD in 2024, accounting for 11.53% of the global market share. The region has a well – developed electronics industry, with a strong presence in sectors such as consumer electronics, automotive, and aerospace. In the United States, which is a major contributor to the North American market, the demand for thin – film capacitors is driven by the continuous innovation in the electronics and automotive industries.
For example, the growth of electric vehicles in the US has led to an increased demand for thin – film capacitors used in vehicle charging systems and power electronics. Canada and Mexico also contribute to the market, with their own industrial needs, especially in the automotive and electronics manufacturing sectors.
Europe had a revenue of 706.71 M USD in 2024, holding a market share of 15.32%. The European market benefits from its advanced manufacturing base, particularly in countries like Germany, the UK, and France. Germany, with its strong automotive and industrial sectors, has a high demand for thin – film capacitors. These capacitors are used in automotive electronics for functions such as engine control units and in industrial equipment for power conversion and filtering.
The UK and France also have significant industries that rely on thin – film capacitors, including aerospace and telecommunications. The region’s focus on high – quality and high – performance products drives the demand for advanced thin – film capacitors.
Asia – Pacific is the largest market for thin – film capacitors, with a revenue of 3286.80 M USD in 2024, representing 71.26% of the global market share. China is the dominant force in this region. In 2024, China’s market revenue in the thin – film capacitor sector was substantial, driven by its booming electronics manufacturing industry, which includes the production of consumer electronics, smartphones, and electrical appliances.
Additionally, China’s strong push for renewable energy and electric vehicle development has further increased the demand for thin – film capacitors. Japan and South Korea also play important roles, with their advanced electronics and automotive industries. Japan has a long – standing reputation for producing high – quality electronic components, and South Korea is a major player in the global smartphone and semiconductor markets, both of which require a large number of thin – film capacitors.
South America had a market revenue of 56.54 M USD in 2024, with a market share of 1.23%. Although the market size is relatively smaller compared to other regions, it is showing growth potential. Brazil is the largest market in South America, with its growing automotive and electronics industries driving the demand for thin – film capacitors. The expansion of manufacturing activities in the region, along with the increasing investment in infrastructure and technology, is expected to further boost the market in the coming years.
The Middle East and Africa had a revenue of 30.70 M USD in 2024, accounting for 0.67% of the global market share. The market in this region is influenced by various factors. In countries like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa, the growth of the electronics and automotive industries, as well as infrastructure development projects, is driving the demand for thin – film capacitors. However, the market is also facing challenges such as economic instability and limited technological development in some areas, which may affect its growth rate. Overall, while the current market share is small, there is potential for growth as the region continues to develop its industrial and technological capabilities.
Figure Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Thin Film Capacitor Market Analysis by Major Players
7.1 Xiamen Faratronic
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Xiamen Faratronic is a leading global manufacturer of professional film capacitors, established in 1955. The company is headquartered in China and has a strong presence in the global market, particularly in the fields of industrial, photovoltaic, wind power, electric vehicles (EV/HEV), traction, smart grid, home appliances, and lighting.
Xiamen Faratronic has been a major supplier of thin film capacitors since its inception. The company offers a wide range of film capacitors, including polyester film, metallized film, and polypropylene film capacitors. These capacitors are known for their high reliability, self-healing properties, and excellent performance in various applications.
Products:
Xiamen Faratronic’s product line includes capacitors for DC filtering, voltage absorption, and filtering in electronic power equipment. Their capacitors are used in applications such as switching power supplies, electronic ballasts, and frequency converters.
Market Performance in 2023:
In 2023, Xiamen Faratronic reported a revenue of $612.26 million USD with a gross margin of 41.49%.
7.2 Panasonic
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Panasonic is a global leader in developing various electronic technologies and solutions for customers in consumer electronics, residential, automotive, and B2B businesses. Established in 1918, Panasonic is headquartered in Japan and operates manufacturing facilities worldwide.
Panasonic offers a wide range of products and services, including film capacitors. The company’s film capacitors are used in automotive, industrial, and infrastructure applications, providing high voltage and high current solutions. Panasonic’s capacitors are known for their compact design, high reliability, and AEC-Q200 compliance.
Products:
Panasonic’s film capacitors include polyester film capacitors, metallized film capacitors, and polypropylene film capacitors. These capacitors are used in applications such as smoothing, snubber circuits, and noise suppression in automotive and industrial inverters.
Market Performance in 2023:
In 2023, Panasonic reported a revenue of $461.47 million USD with a gross margin of 37.90%.
7.3 NICHICON
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
NICHICON is a Japanese company that manufactures and sells a wide variety of capacitors, including aluminum electrolytic capacitors, tantalum electrolytic capacitors, and plastic film capacitors. Established in 1950, NICHICON is headquartered in Japan and has a global presence with manufacturing facilities in Asia.
NICHICON’s business focuses on providing high-quality capacitors for various applications. The company’s film capacitors are known for their high reliability, superior performance in high-frequency applications, and self-healing properties. NICHICON’s products are used in electronics, communication, aerospace, and military applications.
Products:
NICHICON’s film capacitors include polyester film capacitors, metallized film capacitors, and polypropylene film capacitors. These capacitors are designed for applications requiring high capacitance, low ESR, and high voltage handling capabilities. NICHICON’s products are also known for their excellent temperature and frequency characteristics.
Market Performance in 2023:
In 2023, NICHICON reported a revenue of $347.77 million USD with a gross margin of 37.87%.