Fiber-optic sensor revenues are set to soar

17 Jun 2002

North American revenues will reach USD 21.9 million by 2006 predicts US-based market analyst Frost and Sullivan.

Until now, fiber-optic pressure sensors have kept a low profile, but Emilio Gonzalez of Frost and Sullivan claims that this is about to change.

"In 1999, total revenues for fiber-optic pressure sensors in North America totalled USD 14.5 million, a 5.5% growth from the previous year's sales," Gonzalez reported. "This trend will continue, with growth rates accelerating between 2003 and 2006."

Reported to convey huge amounts of information through single fibers, the sensors are insensitive to electromagnetic interference and can function under adverse conditions. Target markets include chemical sensing, biomedical, transportation and structural monitoring. Automation in manufacturing plants also holds potential applications.

Gonzalez also warns that an initial lack of understanding from engineers and higher prices are hurdles that companies must overcome. "But despite all this," he added, "fiber-optic sensors are making in-roads in hazardous-environment monitoring and other fields that will lead to further success with this technology."