Plain Bearing Market to Reach USD 23.9 Billion by 2035, Driven by Automotive Innovation and Industrial Expansion

Plain Bearing Market grows steadily, driven by demand in automotive, aerospace, and industrial machinery for low-maintenance, durable components.

NEWARK, DE, UNITED STATES, May 14, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Plain Bearing Market is anticipated to experience substantial growth between 2025 and 2035, driven by rising demand across the automotive and industrial machinery sectors. The market is projected to be valued at USD 13,479.4 million in 2025 and is estimated to reach USD 23,918.2 million by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% throughout the forecast period. The robust expansion is supported by increasing adoption of lightweight, maintenance-free components in automotive manufacturing and a parallel rise in demand from the aerospace, marine, agricultural, and heavy equipment industries. Plain bearings, known for their simple design, cost-effectiveness, and high load-carrying capacity, are increasingly replacing complex bearing assemblies in applications where reduced friction and long operating lifespans are critical.

Advancements in materials science and engineering are further propelling the market. Modern plain bearings are being manufactured with advanced composite materials, including PTFE-lined and fiber-reinforced polymers, offering improved wear resistance, self-lubrication, and corrosion protection. This makes them ideal for environments with high moisture, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to chemicals. As automation and robotics become central to industrial operations, the requirement for low-maintenance and highly durable bearing solutions is accelerating. Additionally, stringent energy efficiency regulations in automotive and manufacturing industries are pushing OEMs to adopt bearing systems that reduce friction and energy consumption, further fueling market growth.

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Key Takeaways for the Plain Bearing Market

The projected growth to nearly USD 24 billion by 2035 underlines the increasing significance of plain bearings in modern mechanical systems. Their rising usage in electric vehicles, where space-saving and silent operation are crucial, is a major factor contributing to demand. The industrial machinery sector is also a key revenue generator, with applications ranging from pumps and compressors to textile machinery and construction equipment. Furthermore, the shift toward renewable energy projects such as wind and hydroelectric power plants is boosting the deployment of heavy-duty plain bearings designed for harsh and continuous operations. The growing preference for low-friction, high-durability solutions across sectors is expected to sustain long-term market growth.

Emerging Trends in the Global Market

The global plain bearing market is witnessing several emerging trends that are reshaping product development and supply chain strategies. One significant trend is the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental compliance. Manufacturers are investing in the development of lead-free, recyclable, and eco-friendly plain bearings to meet evolving regulatory standards and customer expectations. Another key trend is the miniaturization of plain bearings for compact mechanical assemblies in electronics and precision instruments. This has opened up new application areas in medical devices, drones, and portable industrial equipment.

In addition, digitalization is making a notable impact on the sector. Companies are integrating IoT sensors within plain bearing assemblies to enable predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring of bearing performance. This smart bearing technology is particularly useful in industries such as mining, oil & gas, and railways, where equipment failure can lead to significant downtime and financial losses. Manufacturers are also customizing bearing designs based on specific load, speed, and environmental requirements to meet customer-specific needs, which is strengthening supplier-buyer relationships and encouraging repeat business.

Significant Developments in the Global Sector: Trends and Opportunities in the Market

Recent years have witnessed significant developments in the plain bearing market that point to expanded opportunities and evolving customer demands. The automotive industry continues to be a major innovation hub, with manufacturers increasingly using polymer and metal-polymer plain bearings in steering systems, suspension components, and electric drivetrains. These bearings are helping to reduce vehicle weight and improve overall fuel efficiency, supporting automakers in meeting stringent emissions targets. The aerospace sector, too, is deploying high-performance plain bearings in aircraft engines, landing gear, and control systems due to their ability to function under high loads and temperatures without frequent lubrication.

Opportunities are also emerging in developing economies, where industrialization is accelerating. Countries in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East are investing in infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities, creating substantial demand for machinery components including plain bearings. Furthermore, as governments push for modernization of public transportation and defense systems, the need for high-reliability bearing solutions is surging. Custom engineering services and integrated bearing systems are opening new revenue streams for manufacturers who can deliver performance-driven and application-specific solutions.

Recent Developments in the Market

The plain bearing market has seen several recent innovations and strategic moves aimed at enhancing competitiveness. Leading companies have launched new product lines made from thermoplastic composites, which offer the advantages of both lightweight and high-load capacity. Some manufacturers have also introduced self-lubricating spherical plain bearings that eliminate the need for external lubrication even under extreme operational conditions. Strategic mergers and acquisitions are on the rise, with players expanding their geographical reach and technological capabilities through partnerships and consolidations.

Digital platforms and e-commerce channels are playing an increasingly important role in market penetration, especially among SMEs and independent maintenance providers. Companies are leveraging online configurators, virtual demos, and AI-driven recommendation tools to improve customer engagement and product selection. These efforts are being supplemented by investment in advanced manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing and CNC machining, which enable rapid prototyping and customization at lower costs.

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Competition Outlook

The plain bearing market is moderately consolidated, with several global and regional players competing on innovation, pricing, and customer service. Major players in the market include GGB Bearing Technology, SKF Group, Schaeffler Group, RBC Bearings Inc., NSK Ltd., Timken Company, NTN Corporation, Igus GmbH, THK Co., Ltd., and Boston Gear. These companies are actively investing in R&D, expanding product portfolios, and exploring new verticals such as renewable energy and autonomous vehicles to maintain a competitive edge.

Key Segmentations

In terms of segmentation, the market is categorized by type (journal, thrust, linear, spherical, and others), material (metal, plastic, composite), end-use industry (automotive, aerospace, industrial, marine, energy, construction, and others), and distribution channel (OEM and aftermarket). Among these, journal bearings continue to hold a dominant share due to their extensive application in engines and rotating machinery. Regionally, Asia-Pacific leads the market, fueled by rapid industrialization and automotive production in countries like China and India, followed by North America and Europe, which are investing in next-generation manufacturing and transport technologies.

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Ankush Nikam
Future Market Insights, Inc.
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