Overview
Global Vacuum Interrupter Market reached US$ 2.7 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 3.4 billion by 2030, growing with a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period 2023-2030.
The demand for reliable and efficient circuit interruption devices like vacuum interrupters is growing as a result of the expansion of power generation and distribution networks brought on by industrialization, urbanization and technological advancements that are driving the global demand for electricity. Many industrial fields, including mining, oil & gas, manufacturing and transportation, employ vacuum interrupters. As these industries expand, the demand for vacuum interrupters for equipment protection and control also increases.
For example, on August 17, 2022, Mitsubishi Electric, extended its Elevator and Escalator Division by building a new call centre in Cypress, California to serve its operations in U.S. as a result of increased construction activity and developing elevator and escalator infrastructure. Mitsubishi Electric recently begun opening branch offices in a number of significant cities across the country to accommodate customers.
In 2022, North America is expected to expand at a healthy growth rate, making more than 1/4th of the global market. Due to the rise in emphasis on energy efficiency and the need to reduce power losses in electrical systems, current smart grids and renewable energy systems are suitable. Vacuum interrupters are essential high-performance, dependable circuit protection devices for the construction of industrial facilities, power plants and substations in North America.
Dynamics
Rising Use of Renewable Energy
Renewable energy sources are often variable and intermittent, which can pose challenges to grid stability. Vacuum interrupters are used in grid protection and fault isolation, ensuring the reliability and stability of the electrical grid when integrating renewables and their role in preventing short circuits and electrical faults is essential for maintaining a consistent power supply.
For instance, on 26 September 2023, BP commenced construction of the 187MW Peacock Solar farm in Texas, USA. The project will be supported by a long-term power purchase agreement with Gulf Coast Growth Ventures (GCCV), a joint venture between ExxonMobil and SABIC, which produces materials used in various industries, including construction. The solar farm aims to contribute to the transition to lower carbon energy while benefiting local communities and the economy and vacuum interrupters are primarily used in electrical circuit breakers and protection devices.
Growth of Smart Electricity Grid Infrastructure
The development of advanced technologies, including sensors, smart meters and communication networks, has enabled the creation of smart grid infrastructure and these technologies provide real-time data and control capabilities, enhancing grid efficiency and reliability. Smart grids offer improved energy efficiency through demand response programs, load management and better distribution system optimization, this efficiency leads to cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
According to U.S. Office on Electricity in 2022, the electric grid consists of 9200 electric generating units which have a 1 million generating capacity which is connected 600,00o million. The transformation to a "smart grid" relies on two-way communication, control systems and computer processing. Key technologies include Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) for grid stability assessment, digital meters for outage reporting and consumer information, automated substation relays, feeder switches and energy storage solutions.
Adoption of Software and Service
The adoption of software and services in the industry and infrastructure market segments has significantly contributed to the growth of the vacuum interrupter market. Companies are increasingly utilizing software solutions to optimize their operations, improve efficiency and enhance planning processes. Additionally, the integration of software tools for designing, monitoring and managing electrical systems has become crucial in the electrical industry.
For instance, on 26 September 2022, Siemens Smart Infrastructure and EPLAN entered into a strategic partnership to enhance collaboration in the software solutions sector for industry and infrastructure markets. Siemens’ Electrical Products business unit will become a strategic partner in the EPLAN Partner Network as part of this agreement.
Environment Impact and Limited Lifespan
Vacuum interrupters are generally suitable for low to medium-voltage applications and they may not be suitable for high-current interruption and alternative technologies like SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) circuit breakers are preferred for high-voltage applications. Vacuum interrupters are considered more environmentally friendly than SF6 circuit breakers they are not entirely free from environmental concerns. The manufacturing and disposal of vacuum interrupters can still have environmental impacts.
Vacuum interrupters rely on moving parts for their operation and over time, mechanical wear and tear can occur and this can lead to reduced performance and a limited lifespan, although modern designs aim to mitigate this issue. Vacuum interrupters must undergo routine maintenance and testing to maintain appropriate performance this can increase operational expenses and downtime. For extremely high voltage applications, such as ultra-high voltage transmission systems, vacuum interrupters might not be the best choice.

Segment Analysis
The global vacuum interrupter market is segmented based on rated voltage, contact structure, application, end-user and region.
Rising Industrialization and Electrification in Vaccum Circuit Breaker
In 2022, circuit breaker is expected to be the dominant segment in the global market covering around 1/3rd of the market. Vacuum interrupters are essential for improving the dependability of circuit breakers as the demand for effective power distribution and protection systems grows. Modern electrical panels and switchgear require compact and space-saving circuit breakers and vacuum interrupters make this possible and their small size and high performance make them perfect for a variety of applications.
According to Railway technology in April 2023, Schaltbau introduced an innovative AC vacuum circuit breaker designed for AC-driven electric locomotives and multiple units and this circuit breaker is notable for its ability to operate without significant secondary supply energy for switching on overhead wire voltage. Instead of relying on external power sources, it stores the required energy in a coil spring, which is mechanically locked.
Geographical Penetration
High Investments in Infrastructure in Asia-Pacific
During the forecast period, Asia-Pacific is the dominant region in the global vacuum interrupter market covering more than 1/3rd of the market. Asia-Pacific is experiencing significant increase in construction of residential, commercial and industrial buildings and this drives the demand for electrical infrastructure and subsequently, vacuum interrupters for circuit protection.
Many countries in the region are investing heavily in infrastructure development, including power generation, transmission and distribution. Vacuum interrupters are essential components in substations and switchgear systems, supporting the growth of the electrical infrastructure. For instance, on 20 April 2023, a new manufacturing facility for Schneider Electric is being built in Bengal, India, with an estimated expenditure of INR 140 crore.
The nine-acre plant will concentrate on expediting the manufacturing of products like vacuum interrupters and power systems. Additionally, there are currently 30 Schneider Electric factories in India and there are five more that are in various phases of building.

Competitive Landscape
The major global players in the market include ABB, Eaton, Siemens, General Electric, LSIS Co. Ltd., Toshiba Corporation, Wuhan Feite Electric Co., Ltd., Shaanxi Joyelectric International Co., Ltd., Crompton Greaves Limited and Kirloskar Electric Company.
COVID-19 Impact Analysis
The pandemic disrupted global supply chains, affecting the manufacturing and availability of electronic components, including vacuum interrupters and this disruption could have led to delays in projects that require electrical equipment, impacting the growth of the vacuum interrupter market. The pandemic led to changes in electricity demand patterns. With more people working from home, there may have been a shift in demand from commercial and industrial settings to residential areas.
The need for remote monitoring and maintenance of electrical systems became more critical during the pandemic. Vacuum interrupters with smart and condition monitoring capabilities may have seen increased interest and adoption to ensure the reliability of critical infrastructure. Despite disruptions, the transition to renewable energy sources continued during the pandemic.
The pandemic underscored the importance of worker safety. Vacuum interrupters, known for their safety and environmental benefits compared to alternatives like SF6 circuit breakers, may have gained favor due to their characteristics aligning with health and safety priorities. Some projects may have been postponed or scaled-down, affecting the demand for vacuum interrupters.
Russia- Ukraine War Impact
The conflict in Ukraine, a significant producer of electronic components, could disrupt the supply chain for vacuum interrupters. If Ukraine plays a critical role in the production of certain raw materials or components used in vacuum interrupters, shortages or delays in the supply chain could occur, affecting manufacturing and delivery schedules. Geopolitical tensions resulting from the conflict may lead to trade restrictions, export bans or sanctions imposed on Russia or Ukraine.
The war may have implications for energy infrastructure, including power generation and distribution. Vacuum interrupters are used in various electrical equipment, including circuit breakers and switches, which are critical components of energy infrastructure. Disruptions or damage to this infrastructure could drive demand for replacement vacuum interrupters. Geopolitical instability can create market uncertainty, affecting investment decisions in infrastructure projects.
By Rated Voltage


    • 0-15KV
    • 15-30KV
    • Above 30KV


By Contact Structure


  • • Flat Contact
    • Spiral Contact
    • Axial Magnetic


By Application


  • • Circuit Breaker
    • Load Break Switch
    • Recloser
    • Contractor
    • Tap Changer
    • Others


By End-User


  • • Utilities
    • Oil & Gas
    • Mining Sector
    • Transportation
    • Others


By Region


  • • North America


o U.S.
o Canada
o Mexico


  • • Europe


o Germany
o UK
o France
o Italy
o Russia
o Rest of Europe


  • • South America


o Brazil
o Argentina
o Rest of South America


  • • Asia-Pacific


o China
o India
o Japan
o Australia
o Rest of Asia-Pacific


  • • Middle East and Africa


Key Developments


  • • In June 2023, ABB, a leading company in robotics, machine automation and digital services, introduced a new housing for its R-MAG magnetic outdoor circuit breaker designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. The housing has received a NEMA 4 rating, offering exceptional protection against severe water and dust ingress. It features seamless roof-to-wall joints, external self-sealing bolts and a roof overhang to limit water exposure.
    • In January 2023, KCC Corp., a chemicals and auto parts manufacturer of Korea, announced plans to mass-produce ceramic products for eco-friendly vacuum interrupters, which do not emit sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas and these ceramics will primarily be used in vacuum circuit breakers for power transmission and distribution equipment due to their excellent bonding and vacuum sealing properties.
    • In October 2022, Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. (MEPPI), a major U.S. supplier of systems, equipment and services, introduced its 72kV vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) with dry-air insulation, offering a more environmentally responsible and cost-effective alternative to SF6 gas-insulated circuit breakers. The VCB eliminates the need for tracking and documenting greenhouse gases, resulting in significantly lower operational and maintenance costs.


Why Purchase the Report?


  • • To visualize the global vacuum interrupter market segmentation based on rated voltage, contact structure, application, end-user and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
    • Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
    • Excel data sheet with numerous data points of vacuum interrupter market-level with all segments.
    • PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
    • Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.


The global vacuum interrupter market report would provide approximately 69 tables, 72 figures and 202 pages.
Target Audience 2023


  • • Manufacturers/ Buyers
    • Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
    • Research Professionals
    • Emerging Companies