Markets: Chillers

According to a recent market report by BSRIA, an estimated 200 400 units of chillers were shipped worldwide in 2004. The estimated number of centrifugal chillers was 8500 with the USA at the centre of production (3500 units equal to 41% of the market share). China comes second, with a 10% annual increase rate and 1500 units. Japan, Korea and Taiwan follow with 300 units respectively. Dubai in the UAE is also rapidly expanding with demand topping 200 units in 2004 and increasing. Trends for absorption chillers over 350 kW is mainly confined to the Far East, with China (4000 units), Japan (1600) and Korea (900) in the forefront. The market penetration of the top 4 Japanese manufacturers in China will lead to stronger competition. Smaller but reasonably sized markets are India and Iran with sales of over 300 and 200 units respectively. The total approximate world market is 7500 units. No single world zone monopolizes the market for reciprocating, scroll and screw chillers (positive displacement chillers), estimated at 184 400 units. Reciprocating chillers are being gradually replaced by scroll or screw chillers, which are considered to be cost effective and have superior features such as compactness, maintainability, easier control and lower noise. JARN, November 25, 2005