Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Oxygen, Nitrogen, Hydrogen and Others.By Function;
Metal Manufacturing and Fabrication.By End use;
Metal industry, Automotive, Rail & shipping, Aerospace & defense, Heavy machinery, and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2023, the Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market was valued at USD 3,982.20 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 6,626.04 million by the year 2030, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5%.
At the core of this industry lies the need for precision, efficiency, and quality in metal manufacturing, shaping, and finishing processes. Industrial gases serve as indispensable tools in achieving these objectives, offering diverse functionalities across different stages of metal production and fabrication. From enhancing combustion processes to facilitating cutting, welding, and heat treatment operations, the versatility of industrial gases ensures their ubiquitous presence throughout the metalworking value chain.
The sector's significance extends beyond traditional metalworking applications, encompassing emerging fields such as additive manufacturing (3D printing) and semiconductor fabrication. In these innovative domains, industrial gases contribute to enabling advanced production techniques and material properties, thereby driving technological progress and expanding the boundaries of what's achievable in metal fabrication.
Against the backdrop of global industrialization, infrastructure development, and technological advancement, the demand for industrial gases within the Metals & Metal Fabrication sector continues to escalate. This demand surge is propelled by diverse end-user industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, electronics, and energy, all of which rely heavily on metal-based components and structures for their operations.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Recent Developments
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In August 2023, Air Products entered into a strategic partnership with a major metal fabrication company to supply industrial gases used in advanced steel and aluminum production.
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In April 2022, Linde PLC expanded its supply of industrial gases to the metal fabrication industry, focusing on nitrogen and argon for welding and cutting applications.
Segment Analysis
In terms of type, the market is segmented into various categories of industrial gases essential for metals and metal fabrication processes. These gases may include oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, argon, carbon dioxide, and others. Each type of gas plays a distinct role in metal fabrication processes, such as welding, cutting, heat treatment, and surface coating, among others.
Function-wise segmentation categorizes industrial gases based on their specific applications in metals and metal fabrication. This segmentation may include functions such as welding & brazing, cutting & scarfing, heat treatment, surface treatment, and others. Industrial gases serve diverse functions across different stages of metal fabrication, contributing to process efficiency, product quality, and operational safety.
Geographically, the market is segmented into various regions and countries, reflecting the regional distribution of industrial activities and demand for metal fabrication services. Key geographical segments may include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Each region exhibits unique market dynamics influenced by factors such as industrialization, infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, and technological advancements.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market has been segmented by Type, Function, End-Use and Geography.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market has been segmented by Type into Oxygen, Nitrogen, Hydrogen and Others.
Oxygen, as a critical industrial gas, finds extensive application in various metal fabrication processes. Its use includes oxidation reactions, cutting, welding, and as a feedstock in the production of other industrial gases. Nitrogen, another essential industrial gas, is widely utilized in metalworking operations for inerting, blanketing, and as a shielding gas in welding processes to prevent oxidation and ensure product quality.
Hydrogen plays a vital role in metal processing industries, particularly in hydrogenation reactions, heat treatment processes, and as a reducing agent in metallurgical applications. Its use extends to hydrogen-based welding processes, such as atomic hydrogen welding and hydrogen arc welding.
The segment labeled as "others" encompasses a variety of industrial gases, including argon, carbon dioxide, acetylene, and helium, among others. These gases serve diverse functions in metal fabrication, such as shielding, cooling, and specialty applications like plasma cutting.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, Segmentation by Function
The Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market has been segmented by Function into Metal Manufacturing and Fabrication.
Metal Manufacturing encompasses a broad spectrum of processes involved in the production of metal components and products. This includes primary metal production processes such as smelting, refining, and casting, as well as secondary processes like machining, forging, and extrusion. Industrial gases play a crucial role in various stages of metal manufacturing, offering benefits such as improved process efficiency, enhanced product quality, and environmental sustainability. For instance, gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and argon are commonly used for oxygen enrichment, inerting, and purging applications in metal melting and refining processes. Additionally, specialty gases may be employed for precise heat treatment, surface modification, or welding applications, contributing to the overall productivity and competitiveness of metal manufacturing operations.
Fabrication refers to the process of shaping, cutting, bending, and assembling metal components to create finished products. This includes activities such as welding, cutting, forming, and machining, which are essential in industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to construction and machinery manufacturing. Industrial gases play a vital role in metal fabrication processes by providing heat sources for welding and cutting operations, shielding gases to protect weld pools from atmospheric contamination, and assist gases for laser cutting and plasma arc machining. Gases like nitrogen and argon are utilized for laser beam and plasma arc welding, offering superior weld quality, precision, and productivity compared to conventional welding techniques. As metal fabrication techniques continue to evolve and demand for high-performance materials grows, industrial gases are expected to remain indispensable for achieving optimal process performance, product quality, and cost-effectiveness in metal fabrication applications.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, Segmentation by End-Use
The Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market has been segmented by FunctionEnd-Use into Metal industry, Automotive, Rail & shipping, Aerospace & defense, Heavy machinery, and Others
The Global Industrial Gases in Metals and Metal Fabrication Market has been extensively segmented based on Function and End-Use to provide a comprehensive understanding of its applications across various industries. One of the key end-use segments of this market is the Metal Industry, where industrial gases play a critical role in enhancing productivity, ensuring precision, and improving the quality of metal processing. Gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide are widely used in processes like welding, cutting, and heat treatment to facilitate metal production and refinement. The demand for these gases is growing steadily due to the increasing need for high-quality metals in numerous industrial applications.
Another significant end-use segment is the Automotive Industry, where industrial gases are essential for manufacturing components that require high strength and durability. The use of gases like nitrogen and argon in welding and laser cutting helps in producing lightweight yet strong automotive parts, which is crucial for modern fuel-efficient vehicles. Additionally, carbon dioxide is used in metal forming processes to enhance surface finish and reduce material wastage, contributing to cost efficiency in vehicle manufacturing. The growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market further fuels the demand for industrial gases, as advanced metal fabrication techniques are required for producing lightweight battery enclosures, frames, and other essential automotive components.
The Rail and Shipping Industry is another vital segment where industrial gases find extensive applications. Given the massive scale of construction and maintenance involved in rail and shipbuilding, the use of industrial gases is critical for welding, cutting, and surface treatment of metals. Oxygen and acetylene are commonly used in gas welding and cutting applications, ensuring precise fabrication of ship hulls, railway tracks, and other essential components. Moreover, the demand for corrosion-resistant materials in maritime applications boosts the need for specialized industrial gases in metal fabrication, as they help in improving durability and strength.
The Aerospace and Defense Industry represents a highly specialized segment that relies on industrial gases for precision fabrication and assembly of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense equipment. The stringent quality standards and performance requirements in aerospace manufacturing necessitate the use of high-purity gases such as helium, argon, and hydrogen. These gases are essential for processes like heat treatment, metal hardening, and laser welding, which ensure the structural integrity and performance of aerospace components. Additionally, cryogenic gases are used for cooling advanced materials and testing aerospace systems under extreme conditions. The increasing investment in space exploration and defense modernization further drives the demand for industrial gases in this segment.
The Heavy Machinery Industry is another crucial end-use sector that heavily depends on industrial gases for manufacturing equipment used in construction, mining, and industrial operations. The fabrication of heavy-duty machinery requires robust metalworking processes, including welding, cutting, and forming, where gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and argon play a crucial role. Industrial gases enhance the efficiency and precision of these processes, leading to improved durability and performance of heavy machinery. The growing infrastructure and industrialization trends across developing economies have significantly increased the demand for metal fabrication, subsequently driving the industrial gases market.
Lastly, the Others category encompasses a range of industries that utilize industrial gases for metal fabrication, including electronics, renewable energy, and general manufacturing. The expansion of these industries, coupled with technological advancements in metal processing, continues to create new opportunities for the industrial gases market. With increasing demand across various end-use sectors, the market for industrial gases in metals and metal fabrication is poised for significant growth, driven by innovations in manufacturing and the rising emphasis on sustainability and efficiency in metalworking processes.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America boasts a mature industrial gases market with established players and advanced manufacturing capabilities. The region's emphasis on technological innovation, particularly in metal fabrication processes, drives the demand for specialized industrial gases tailored to the needs of various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and construction.
Europe is a key market for industrial gases in metal and metal fabrication applications, characterized by stringent environmental regulations and a strong focus on sustainability. The region's robust manufacturing base, especially in automotive and machinery sectors, sustains steady demand for industrial gases for metal processing, welding, and cutting operations.
Asia Pacific emerges as a prominent market for industrial gases in metals and metal fabrication, fueled by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and infrastructure development. Countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea are major contributors to the region's industrial gases market, driven by the flourishing automotive, construction, and electronics industries.
The Middle East and Africa region witness growing demand for industrial gases in metals and metal fabrication, propelled by investments in infrastructure projects, oil and gas exploration, and diversification efforts. The presence of key players and strategic partnerships with regional stakeholders contribute to the expansion of the industrial gases market in this region.
Latin America presents opportunities for industrial gas suppliers in the metals and metal fabrication sector, supported by industries such as mining, automotive manufacturing, and construction. The region's evolving regulatory landscape, coupled with investments in infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, stimulates the demand for industrial gases for metal processing and welding applications.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities.
Drivers:
- Metal Production Growth
- Energy Efficiency and Environmental Regulations
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Rapid Urbanization and Infrastructure Development - Rapid urbanization and infrastructure development are significant drivers fueling the growth of the global industrial gases for metals and metal fabrication market. As populations continue to migrate from rural to urban areas at an unprecedented rate, there is a corresponding surge in construction activities, urban infrastructure projects, and industrialization initiatives across various regions. This urban expansion necessitates robust metal and metal fabrication industries to cater to the escalating demand for construction materials, machinery, and consumer goods, thereby driving the need for industrial gases.
The construction sector emerges as a primary beneficiary of industrial gases for metals and metal fabrication. With the proliferation of urban development projects such as residential complexes, commercial buildings, infrastructure facilities, and transportation networks, there is a substantial demand for metals like steel, aluminum, and copper, which serve as foundational materials in construction and infrastructure development. Industrial gases play a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of metal fabrication processes involved in manufacturing structural components, reinforcing materials, and architectural elements for urban infrastructure projects.
Rapid urbanization entails the modernization and expansion of industrial facilities, manufacturing plants, and production units to meet the burgeoning needs of urban populations. Industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to electronics and machinery rely extensively on metal fabrication processes for manufacturing components and end-products. Industrial gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide are indispensable in various metalworking applications, including welding, cutting, brazing, heat treatment, and surface coating. These gases facilitate precise control over metallurgical properties, improve productivity, minimize material wastage, and ensure the integrity and quality of fabricated metal products, thereby supporting the growth of the metal
Restraints:
- Volatility in Raw Material Prices
- High Initial Investment Costs
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Energy Intensive Production Processes - The Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication market faces a significant restraint in the form of energy-intensive production processes. The manufacturing of metals and metal products often involves high-energy consumption, contributing to increased operational costs and environmental impact.
Energy-intensive production processes, such as smelting, refining, and shaping metals, require substantial amounts of electricity, natural gas, or other energy sources. This dependency on energy not only drives up production expenses but also exposes manufacturers to volatility in energy prices. Fluctuations in energy costs can directly impact the profitability of metal fabrication companies, especially those operating on thin profit margins.
The environmental implications of energy-intensive production processes cannot be overlooked. The combustion of fossil fuels in industrial operations releases greenhouse gases and other pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and air quality degradation. As environmental regulations become more stringent worldwide, metal fabrication companies face pressure to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt cleaner, more sustainable production methods.
Addressing the challenge of energy-intensive production requires innovation and investment in energy-efficient technologies. Manufacturers can explore alternative energy sources, such as renewable electricity or hydrogen, to power their operations. Improving process efficiency and implementing recycling and waste recovery systems can help reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.
Opportunities:
- Rising Demand for High-Quality Metals
- Energy Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability
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Market Expansion in Developing Regions - The market expansion in developing regions presents a significant opportunity for the global industrial gases for metals and metal fabrication market. Developing regions, including Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Africa, are witnessing rapid industrialization and infrastructure development, driving the demand for metals and metal fabrication activities.
As these regions continue to urbanize and industrialize, there is a growing need for industrial gases in various metalworking processes such as welding, cutting, and brazing. Additionally, the automotive, construction, and manufacturing sectors in these regions are experiencing robust growth, further fueling the demand for industrial gases in metal fabrication applications. Government initiatives aimed at promoting manufacturing and industrial growth are creating a conducive environment for market expansion in developing economies.
Companies operating in the industrial gases sector have an opportunity to capitalize on this growth potential by expanding their presence in emerging markets, establishing strategic partnerships with local manufacturers, and offering tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of customers in these regions. However, challenges such as regulatory complexities, infrastructure limitations, and competition from local players need to be carefully addressed to effectively tap into the growth opportunities presented by developing regions.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market include:
- Praxair, Inc. (U.S.)
- Airgas, Inc. (U.S.)
- Air Liquide S.A. (France)
- Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (U.S.)
- Iwatani Corporation (Japan)
- Messer Group (Germany)
- The Linde Group (U.S.)
- Southern Industrial Gas SDN. BHD. (Malaysia)
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Function
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Metal Production Growth
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Energy Efficiency and Environmental Regulations
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Rapid Urbanization and Infrastructure Development
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- Restraints
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Volatility in Raw Material Prices
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High Initial Investment Costs
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Energy Intensive Production Processes
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- Opportunities
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Rising Demand for High-Quality Metals
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Energy Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability
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Market Expansion in Developing Regions
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Oxygen
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Nitrogen
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Hydrogen
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Others
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- Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, By Function, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Metal Manufacturing
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Fabrication
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- Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, By End-Use, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Metal industry
- Automotive
- Rail & shipping
- Aerospace & defense
- Heavy machinery
- Others
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Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Industrial Gases In Metals And Metal Fabrication Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Praxair, Inc. (U.S.)
- Airgas, Inc. (U.S.)
- Air Liquide S.A. (France)
- Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (U.S.)
- Iwatani Corporation (Japan)
- Messer Group (Germany)
- The Linde Group (U.S.)
- Southern Industrial Gas SDN. BHD. (Malaysia)
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market