Abstract
US bearing demand to reach $11 billion in 2011
Ball, roller and plain bearing demand is forecast to rise 3.2% annually
through 2011 to $11.0 billion. Suppliers will benefit from largely favorable
economic conditions, with an acceleration in aerospace equipment industry
output and an upturn in motor vehicle production driving associated bearing
demand. In addition, a pickup in nonresidential investment expenditures will
help bolster demand for bearings used in both original equipment manufacturing
(OEM) and maintenance/repair/operations (MRO) applications.
Market gains will be constrained by a deceleration in overall durable goods
shipments as US-based firms continue to move production operations to China
and other areas where labor costs are lower. In addition, average bearing life
has significantly increased due to the use of improved product designs,
better-quality materials -- including cleaner, stronger steels -- and better
lubricants, which will dampen growth in aftermarket demand. However, a shift
in product mix toward more expensive, better performing products will provide
a counterbalance, supported in part by high energy prices, making highly
efficient bearings a more attractive investment.
Shipments of bearings from US plants are also expected to keep pace with
domestic demand. Industry output will be stimulated by generally healthy
domestic sales conditions and rising bearing demand in a number of export
markets. Further investment in US bearing plants by foreign firms will also
support production gains.
US bearing manufacturers' ongoing efforts to improve the quality and
performance of their products, and to heighten the efficiency of their
business operations, will also help spur output growth, as will a trend from
selling simple components to selling more advanced, higher value added systems
that incorporate bearings and associated components.
Study coverage
It presents historical data (1996, 2001, 2006) plus forecasts for 2011 and
2016 for US bearings demand by product type and market. This study also
examines market environment factors, evaluates company market shares and
profiles 33 US industry competitors.
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