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Based on material, the aerospace bearings market is segmented into stainless steel, aluminum alloys, metal polymer & engineered plastic, fiber reinforced composites and ceramic. The metal polymer & engineered plastic segment was valued at over USD 850 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a lucrative pace through 2032. The self-lubricating nature of metal polymer & engineered plastic Bearings eliminates the need for external lubrication. This characteristic reduces maintenance requirements, extends Bearings lifespan, and enhances operational efficiency, making them an attractive choice for aerospace applications.
Engineered plastics and metal-polymer composites offer excellent corrosion resistance, a crucial feature for aerospace systems that operate in diverse & challenging environments. This resistance enhances the durability & reliability of Bearings, especially in applications exposed to moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. Growth in emerging technologies, such as drones, urban air mobility vehicles & small satellites, drives the demand for compact, lightweight, and efficient components. Metal polymer and engineered plastic Bearings align well with the requirements of these innovative aerospace platforms.
Based on type, the aerospace bearings market is segmented into ball Bearings, tapered roller Bearings, cylindrical roller Bearings, spherical Bearings, and plain Bearings. The ball Bearings segment held a CAGR of over 8.5% in 2022 and is expected to grow at a lucrative pace up to 2032. Ball Bearings are designed to reduce friction and facilitate rotation between two surfaces. They consist of an outer ring, an inner ring, balls (rolling elements), and a cage that holds the balls in place. Ball Bearings are widely used in aerospace applications where the need for low friction, high precision, and durability is critical.
The aerospace industry's focus on reducing fuel consumption and emissions is leading to the development of more fuel-efficient aircraft. Ball Bearings that offer low friction and efficient rotation play a role in achieving these goals by minimizing energy losses. The global demand for air travel has been consistently growing, driven by factors such as rising disposable incomes, increased tourism, and globalization. This growth in air travel leads to higher production rates of aircraft, directly increasing the demand for aerospace ball Bearings.
North America has a strong presence in space exploration with organizations such as NASA and private companies leading the way. Bearings are major components in space launch vehicles, satellites, and space exploration equipment. The region's substantial defense budget supports the demand for aerospace components including Bearings for military aircraft, drones, and defense systems. The existing large fleet of aircraft in North America creates a steady demand for aerospace Bearings in MRO activities, supporting the aftermarket segment. Furthermore, collaboration between aerospace OEMs, Bearings manufacturers & research institutions fosters technological advancements and the development of specialized Bearings solutions. North America is home to major aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin, which drives the demand for aerospace Bearings.