Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By End Use (Healthcare, Aerospace, Telecommunications, Manufacturing), By Application (Medical, Space, Industrial, Electronics, Cryogenic Research), By Configuration (Single Stage, Two Stage, Three Stage, Multi-Stage), By Cooling Capacity (Low Capacity, Medium Capacity, High Capacity, Ultra-High Capacity), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market is projected to grow from USD 1.45 Billion in 2025 to USD 2.78 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 7.6% from 2026 through 2035. The Gifford McMahon (GM) cryocooler market encompasses devices utilizing a cyclic process of gas compression and expansion to achieve cryogenic temperatures, primarily for cooling superconducting magnets, infrared detectors, and other low temperature applications. This market is fundamentally driven by the escalating demand for advanced medical imaging systems, particularly MRI, where GM cryocoolers are essential for cooling superconducting magnets. Furthermore, the burgeoning space industry, with its increasing satellite launches and deep space missions requiring cryogenic cooling for sensitive instrumentation, significantly propels market expansion. The growing adoption of high-temperature superconductor (HTS) technologies across various sectors, including power transmission and energy storage, also contributes to market growth. However, a key restraint impacting the market is the high initial cost of these sophisticated systems, coupled with the specialized maintenance required, which can be a barrier for smaller organizations. Despite this, the market presents substantial opportunities stemming from the increasing research and development in quantum computing, which necessitates ultra-low temperatures, and the expanding defense sector's need for advanced infrared detection and guidance systems.
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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A prominent trend shaping the market is the development of compact and highly efficient GM cryocoolers, addressing space and power constraints in various applications. There is also a notable shift towards systems offering greater reliability and longer operational lifespans, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. The Two Stage configuration dominates the market, largely due to its versatility and effectiveness across a wide range of cryogenic temperatures required by diverse applications. North America holds the dominant share in the global market, primarily attributed to robust investments in scientific research, well-established aerospace and defense industries, and a strong presence of key technology developers and end-users in the region. The region's technological leadership and significant R&D expenditures in cryogenics further solidify its market position.
Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest growing region in the Gifford McMahon cryocooler market. This rapid growth is fueled by increasing industrialization, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and rising government investments in space exploration and defense programs across countries like China, India, and Japan. The region's growing manufacturing capabilities and increasing adoption of advanced technologies are creating a fertile ground for market expansion. Key players in this competitive landscape include Advanced Cryogenics, Brooks Automation, Chart Industries, Jiangsu Freezing Equipment, Ricor, UlVAC, Linde, Honeywell, Northrop Grumman, and Kryo Industries. These companies are actively engaged in strategic initiatives such as product innovation, geographical expansion, and collaborations to strengthen their market presence and cater to the evolving demands of various end-use industries, ensuring a dynamic and competitive market environment.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 1.45 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 2.78 BillionLeading Segment:
Two Stage (62.5% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
North America (38.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
7.6%
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Emerging Trends and Insights
Cryocooler Miniaturization for Portable Devices
Cryocooler miniaturization is a significant trend, driven by the increasing demand for portable devices across various sectors. Traditionally larger and more power intensive, Gifford McMahon cryocoolers are undergoing substantial design modifications to reduce their footprint and weight. This miniaturization enables their integration into handheld instruments for scientific research, medical diagnostics, and advanced electronics cooling. The focus is on developing compact, lightweight, and energy efficient systems that can operate reliably in diverse environments. This trend is crucial for applications requiring localized ultracooling without access to large laboratory infrastructure. Smaller coolers facilitate on field analysis and personal use devices, unlocking new market segments previously inaccessible due to size constraints. The continuous innovation in materials and thermodynamics is propelling this miniaturization forward.
Aerospace and Defense Sector Adoption Spike
The Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market is witnessing a notable adoption spike within the aerospace and defense sector, driven by increasingly sophisticated requirements for advanced cooling technologies. This trend reflects the growing integration of highly sensitive infrared sensors, high power lasers, and precision guidance systems in modern spacecraft, satellites, military aircraft, and ground based defense platforms. Gifford McMahon cryocoolers offer critical advantages in these applications due to their robust design, long operational lifespan, and ability to achieve very low temperatures with high cooling power. Their reliability and efficiency are paramount for maintaining optimal performance and extending the mission duration of these demanding aerospace and defense systems, minimizing failure rates and enhancing overall system capabilities in challenging operational environments.
Quantum Computing Driving Cryogenic Demand
The burgeoning field of quantum computing is a significant driver of cryogenic demand, particularly for Gifford McMahon cryocoolers. Quantum processors require extremely low operating temperatures, often mere millikelvins above absolute zero, to maintain quantum coherence and prevent decoherence. These ultracold environments are typically achieved using multi stage cryostats incorporating GM cryocoolers as the first or second cooling stage. As research progresses and commercial quantum computing applications emerge, the need for reliable and efficient refrigeration solutions will escalate. Each new quantum computer or experimental setup necessitates sophisticated cooling infrastructure, directly translating into increased demand for Gifford McMahon cryocoolers. This symbiotic relationship sees advancements in quantum technology spurring innovation and production within the cryogenic industry, creating a positive feedback loop for both sectors.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market
Rising Demand from Aerospace and Defense for Advanced Cooling Systems
The aerospace and defense sectors are experiencing a significant surge in demand for sophisticated electronic systems, high power lasers, and advanced sensor technologies. These cutting edge applications generate substantial heat during operation, which can compromise performance, reduce longevity, and even cause system failure. Gifford McMahon cryocoolers are crucial for maintaining optimal operating temperatures for these sensitive components by providing ultra low cooling capabilities. As new aircraft, spacecraft, and advanced weapon systems are developed and deployed, their reliance on these highly efficient and reliable cooling solutions intensifies. This escalating need for precise thermal management across military and space applications directly fuels the growth of the Gifford McMahon cryocooler market.
Expanding Applications in Medical Imaging and Cryosurgery
The expanding applications in medical imaging and cryosurgery are a significant driver for the global Gifford McMahon cryocooler market. In medical imaging, Gifford McMahon cryocoolers are essential for maintaining the ultracold temperatures required by superconducting magnets in Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI systems. This ensures optimal performance, image clarity, and patient safety. As the demand for advanced and more accessible MRI scans grows globally, so does the need for reliable cryocooling technology.
Concurrently, in cryosurgery, Gifford McMahon cryocoolers play a critical role in various procedures by providing the precise and consistent low temperatures necessary for freezing and destroying diseased tissue. This minimally invasive technique is gaining traction for treating conditions ranging from certain cancers to dermatological issues. The increasing adoption of cryosurgery across different medical specialties directly fuels the demand for these specialized cryocoolers, propelling market growth.
Technological Advancements in Cryocooler Efficiency and Miniaturization
Technological advancements in cryocooler efficiency and miniaturization are a key driver in the global Gifford McMahon cryocooler market. Innovations lead to smaller, more energy efficient cryocoolers capable of achieving lower temperatures with reduced power consumption. This makes Gifford McMahon technology more accessible and cost effective for a broader range of applications. For instance, enhanced cooling power within smaller footprints allows for integration into compact systems such as advanced medical imaging equipment or portable scientific instruments. Improved reliability and extended operational lifetimes also reduce maintenance costs and increase system uptime, further boosting adoption across diverse industries. These advancements make Gifford McMahon cryocoolers more attractive for new and existing applications requiring precise cryogenic cooling.
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Restraints
High Initial Investment and Operating Costs
The Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market faces significant restraint due to high initial investment and operating costs. Manufacturing these advanced cryocoolers requires substantial capital expenditure for specialized machinery, precision components, and a skilled workforce adept at complex assembly. Research and development further add to these upfront expenses, as companies constantly strive for improved efficiency and reliability.
Beyond initial purchase, operational costs contribute to the challenge. These include expenditures for power consumption, regular maintenance, and the need for highly trained technicians to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Spare parts can also be costly and require specialized sourcing. These combined financial burdens can deter potential customers, particularly smaller organizations or those with limited capital budgets, thereby slowing market penetration and overall adoption of Gifford McMahon cryocooler technology across various industries.
Limited Market Adoption in Emerging Economies
Limited market adoption in emerging economies presents a significant restraint for the global Gifford McMahon cryocooler market. These regions often face economic constraints, making the high initial cost of sophisticated cryocoolers a substantial barrier for potential buyers. Budgets in developing countries prioritize essential infrastructure and services, leaving less capital for advanced scientific or industrial equipment.
Furthermore, a lack of specialized technical expertise and infrastructure for maintenance and support in these economies hinders widespread adoption. The complex nature of Gifford McMahon cryocoolers necessitates trained personnel for installation, operation, and repair. Without adequate local support networks and skilled labor, organizations are hesitant to invest in technology that may become inoperable or difficult to maintain. This combination of cost sensitivity and insufficient local capabilities significantly restricts market penetration and growth in these crucial, developing regions.
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Opportunities
Quantum Computing's Growing Demand for High-Performance Gifford McMahon Cryocoolers
Quantum computing's groundbreaking advancements are creating a substantial new opportunity for high performance Gifford McMahon cryocoolers. These sophisticated cooling systems are absolutely critical for maintaining the ultra low temperatures required for quantum processors to operate efficiently. Quantum bits, or qubits, demand millikelvin environments to preserve their delicate quantum states, making robust and reliable cryocooling indispensable for their functionality. As quantum research accelerates and commercial quantum applications emerge across various sectors, the demand for precise, high efficiency cryocoolers is surging globally. This expansion represents a significant growth pathway for manufacturers. Companies providing cutting edge Gifford McMahon technology can capitalize on this specialized, high value segment. The global push toward quantum supremacy directly fuels an escalating need for these advanced cooling solutions, creating a lucrative market opening especially in fast developing regions for cryocooler providers who can meet stringent performance requirements.
Expanding Aerospace & Medical Imaging Applications for Compact Gifford McMahon Cryocoolers
The opportunity lies in leveraging compact Gifford McMahon cryocoolers for increasingly sophisticated aerospace and medical imaging applications. In aerospace, these cryocoolers are crucial for cooling infrared sensors, detectors, and sensitive scientific instruments aboard satellites, spacecraft, and airborne platforms. Their small size, high reliability, and ability to operate in extreme environments make them ideal for precise temperature control essential for high performance imaging and surveillance systems.
For medical imaging, particularly Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI, compact GM cryocoolers provide vital cooling for superconducting magnets. As healthcare demands more advanced, efficient, and potentially more portable diagnostic tools, these cryocoolers enable smaller footprint MRI machines and other specialized imaging equipment. Their consistent ultra-low temperature performance ensures diagnostic accuracy and enhances patient care. This expansion is driven by the continuous need for higher resolution, faster data acquisition, and greater operational efficiency in both space exploration and critical medical diagnostics, positioning compact GM cryocoolers as key enabling technologies.
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Medical
- •Space
- •Industrial
- •Electronics
- •Cryogenic Research
By Cooling Capacity
- •Low Capacity
- •Medium Capacity
- •High Capacity
- •Ultra-High Capacity
By Configuration
- •Single Stage
- •Two Stage
- •Three Stage
- •Multi-Stage
By End Use
- •Healthcare
- •Aerospace
- •Telecommunications
- •Manufacturing
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Medical
- Industrial
- Cryogenic Research
- Electronics
- Space
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Why is Two Stage dominating the Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market?
Two Stage Gifford McMahon cryocoolers lead the market with a substantial majority share, owing to their superior balance of cooling efficiency and operational temperature range. They are adept at reaching the precise cryogenic temperatures required for a broad spectrum of applications, including vital medical diagnostics, advanced research, and various industrial processes. This versatility, coupled with their recognized reliability and a favorable cost performance ratio, positions two stage configurations as the preferred solution. They effectively bridge the gap between simpler single stage units and more complex multi stage designs, providing an optimal blend of capability and practicality for diverse end users.
Which application segment contributes significantly to Gifford McMahon cryocooler demand?
The Medical application segment is a pivotal driver for Gifford McMahon cryocooler demand, largely due to their indispensable role in Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI systems. These cryocoolers are essential for maintaining the superconducting magnets in MRI scanners at ultra low temperatures, ensuring stable and high resolution imaging performance. Beyond MRI, their use extends to other critical medical devices and cryopreservation techniques. This consistent demand from the healthcare sector for reliable, high performance cooling solutions underscores the segment's significant contribution to the overall market landscape.
How does cooling capacity influence Gifford McMahon cryocooler market dynamics?
Cooling capacity significantly shapes the market dynamics, dictating the suitability of Gifford McMahon cryocoolers for specific applications. Low Capacity units are often deployed in compact electronics cooling or smaller research setups, whereas Medium Capacity cryocoolers serve a broader range including some industrial applications and laboratory research. High Capacity and Ultra High Capacity units are critical for large scale industrial processes, space simulation chambers, and advanced scientific experiments requiring substantial cooling power. This segmentation ensures that diverse industrial, research, and specialized application requirements are met with appropriately sized and efficient cryogenic solutions.
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global Gifford McMahon cryocooler market navigates a complex regulatory landscape primarily shaped by safety, environmental, and strategic considerations. International standards from organizations like ISO and IEC govern design, manufacturing, and operational safety, particularly concerning high pressure helium systems and electrical components. Environmental policies increasingly influence the market, focusing on refrigerant management, energy efficiency, and waste disposal practices, though helium’s inert nature reduces direct environmental impact compared to other refrigerants. National and regional regulations often impose specific energy consumption standards or certification requirements for industrial equipment. Furthermore, the dual use nature of cryocoolers in defense, aerospace, and sensitive research applications triggers stringent export control regimes, such as those derived from the Wassenaar Arrangement, impacting market access and technology transfer across borders. Compliance with diverse national medical device regulations, like FDA and CE Mark, is crucial for healthcare sector penetration. Adherence to intellectual property laws also underpins market competitiveness.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market is being profoundly influenced by continuous innovation. Emerging technologies focus on enhancing efficiency, miniaturization, and reliability. Advanced material science is driving the development of lighter, more robust components, improving thermal performance and reducing system weight. This includes novel regenerator materials and improved seal designs extending operational longevity.
Digitalization and smart control systems are becoming pivotal, incorporating artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance, optimized power consumption, and real time performance adjustments. Energy efficiency gains are crucial, with new thermodynamic cycles and improved heat exchanger designs reducing operational costs. Additive manufacturing facilitates complex internal geometries, enabling custom designs and faster prototyping, leading to more compact and powerful cryocoolers. Integration of IoT sensors provides comprehensive monitoring capabilities, further enhancing system diagnostics and overall market expansion. These advancements underpin the robust growth observed across diverse applications.
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Regional Analysis
Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market
Trends, by Region
North America Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
North America · 38.2% share
North America commands a significant presence in the Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market, holding a dominant 38.2% market share. This leadership position is driven by robust research and development activities, particularly within the United States. Strong government funding for scientific endeavors, coupled with a well established semiconductor industry, fuels demand for advanced cryocooling solutions. Key applications in medical imaging, space exploration, and high energy physics laboratories also contribute to the region’s sustained growth. The presence of major cryocooler manufacturers and a skilled workforce further solidifies North America’s leading role, indicating continued innovation and market expansion in the coming years.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 9.2% CAGR
Asia Pacific emerges as the fastest growing region in the global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler market, projected to expand at an impressive CAGR of 9.2% from 2026 to 2035. This robust growth is primarily fueled by escalating demand from the healthcare sector for advanced MRI systems and medical research. Furthermore, the region's burgeoning electronics industry, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, is driving the need for cryocoolers in semiconductor manufacturing and high performance computing. Increased government funding for scientific research and a rising number of collaborations between academic institutions and industry players further propel market expansion across the diverse Asia Pacific landscape.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical stability in key manufacturing nations and access to rare earth elements are critical for cryocooler production. Trade tensions or export controls on specialized components could disrupt supply chains. Furthermore, evolving space exploration ambitions of various countries directly fuel demand for cryocoolers in satellite and deep space probes, while defense applications like missile defense systems and infrared sensors create a stable, albeit sometimes volatile, market segment. International collaborations on scientific projects requiring extreme cooling further bolster demand.
Macroeconomic factors influence research and development budgets, impacting innovation in cryocooler technologies. Government funding for scientific research and development, particularly in quantum computing and low temperature physics, directly drives demand. The overall health of the semiconductor industry, a major end-user, also dictates purchasing patterns. Currency fluctuations can affect import costs for raw materials and export competitiveness. Energy prices, while not directly impacting cryocooler operation, can influence the viability of power intensive applications where these devices are employed.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Chart Industries announced a strategic partnership with Advanced Cryogenics to co-develop next-generation Gifford McMahon (GM) cryocoolers optimized for quantum computing applications. This collaboration aims to leverage Chart's expertise in cryogenic systems with Advanced Cryogenics' specialized knowledge in ultra-low temperature technologies to meet increasing demand from the quantum sector.
- January 2025
ULVAC successfully launched its new 'ULVAC ColdEdge 2K-GM' series, a product line of Gifford McMahon cryocoolers capable of reaching temperatures as low as 2 Kelvin. This advanced product targets high-performance scientific research and specialized industrial applications requiring precise and ultra-low temperature control.
- November 2024
Brooks Automation completed the acquisition of Kryo Industries, a rising innovator in compact cryocooler designs. This acquisition strengthens Brooks Automation's portfolio in the Gifford McMahon segment, particularly enhancing their offerings for semiconductor manufacturing and medical imaging markets.
- September 2024
Linde announced a significant investment in expanding its manufacturing capabilities for Gifford McMahon cryocoolers in Europe, specifically focusing on increasing production capacity for large-scale industrial and aerospace applications. This strategic initiative is driven by anticipated growth in demand from sectors requiring robust and reliable cryogenic cooling solutions.
Key Players Analysis
Advanced Cryogenics and Ricor lead in pulse tube and Stirling cryocoolers for space and defense. Brooks Automation and Chart Industries dominate industrial applications with Gifford McMahon and GMJT technologies. Linde and Honeywell leverage their broad engineering expertise, while ULVAC focuses on micro cryocoolers. Jiangsu Freezing and Kryo Industries are emerging players, pushing innovation in cooling efficiency. Northrop Grumman integrates these technologies into advanced systems, driving market growth through strategic partnerships and continuous R&D.
List of Key Companies:
- Advanced Cryogenics
- Brooks Automation
- Chart Industries
- Jiangsu Freezing Equipment
- Ricor
- UlVAC
- Linde
- Honeywell
- Northrop Grumman
- Kryo Industries
- General Dynamics
- Sumitomo Heavy Industries
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Cleveland Motion Controls
- Ametek
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 1.45 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 2.78 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 7.6% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Cooling Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Configuration, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Cooling Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Configuration, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Cooling Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Configuration, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Cooling Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Configuration, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Cooling Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Configuration, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Cooling Capacity, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Configuration, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Gifford McMahon Cryocooler Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035