Powder Metallurgy: Technologies and Global Markets

Report Highlights

• BCC projects that value of powder shipments will resume growth in 2010 at a 3.9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), from $4.6 billion in 2009 to $4.7 billion in 2010. From 2010 to 2015, this segment will increase at a 6.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to a value of $6.6 billion.
• The part base will grow from a low of nearly $9.7 billion in 2009 to more than $10 billion in 2010. From 2010 to 2015 this segment will increase at a 6.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to reach a value of $13.9 billion in 2015.
• Individual powders and parts will also pick up in 2010.  Iron and steel powders will grow at a 3.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and parts made from them will also rise by 3.5%.  Through 2015, we expect to see iron and steel powder growth of 5.1% CAGR as the auto and other industries resume higher growth rates.

INTRODUCTION

STUDY GOAL OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to present an analysis of the global powder metallurgy market. Our goal was to determine the current status of powder metallurgy (PM) industry and assess its growth potential over the period from 2009 to 2010 and then over the 5 year period from 2010 to 2015. We were particularly interested in the status of the industry in relation to the global economic crisis and recession, and the impact these events had on PM product demand.

Our major objective is to present a comprehensive analysis of the current powder metallurgy industry and project its future course.

REASONS FOR DOING THE STUDY

Powder metallurgy (PM) has been a steady industry over the past several decades, growing from the 1980s. Much of its growth derived from metal powder-based parts replacing castings, forgings and machined parts. The industry has consistently demonstrated that it could meet the demand of manufacturers at a lower cost than previous technologies. More than 72% of all PM parts have historically been sold to the automotive industry.

We have examined the current position of PM technologies and materials in 10 major powder groups. We were interested in the materials proposed to meet the demand for more sophisticated products. We also analyzed the decline in PM demand within particular industries caused by the economic downturn.

PM could eventually become an industry with saturated markets and grow largely by acquisition or increasing market share. But PM technology is still evolving, and the industry has adapted particulates (or powders and materials that are not made solely of metals). Products are changing, too, and PM can be adapted or modified to meet their demands. PM can expand and resume growth, which is an important reason to do this study.

INTENDED AUDIENCE

We studied the different metals and the parts they formed. An overview of the various PM technologies is presented and descriptions of the various “new” materials being used are included. An overview of industry competitiveness is also presented including a discussion of global economic factors.

BCC Research tracks various metal powders and other materials through the manufacturing process and the fabrication of parts. A global view is provided and manufacturing capabilities and consumption patterns are examined for each of five major regions throughout the world.

SCOPE OF REPORT

This study includes companies who manufacture powder metal and other related materials used in the process, such as ceramics and nanopowders, special alloys and metal matrix composites. It also includes companies that make parts and components for automotive products, industrial and tolling equipment, recreation and hobby items, appliances, business machines and other products.

BCC Research analyzes the PM industry on a global basis, including manufacturing capability and consumption by regional markets. We also look at industry standards, government and industry support, and other key factors related to the success of powder metallurgy.

Market drivers within the industry are identified. The quantity and value of various powders and parts shipments is projected from 2009 to 2010 and then over a 5 year period from 2010 to 2015. Technological issues and trends are projected and other influential factors are discussed.

Because this is a global study, BCC Research analyzes domestic and international technological issues and economic considerations.

METHODOLOGY

Both primary and secondary research methodologies were used in preparing this study. BCC Research presents an analysis for each type of powder used and the parts made from them. We look at properties, advantages, demand factors, competition, and other information. Estimated value is what manufacturers and material providers have paid in current dollars. Then, based on our surveys, we analyze industry growth in relation to the demand for and growth of PM technology.

INFORMATION SOURCES

BCC Research interviewed approximately 125 companies to obtain data for this study. Included were chemists, process equipment specialists, marketing executives, operations personnel, and users of various powder metal parts. Participants included representatives of the automotive industry, tooling companies and industrial buyers. Additional data were obtained from government information, trade associations, industry and financial sources and an exhaustive review of technical literature.

ANALYST'S CREDENTIALS

After a successful career at IBM, Robert H. Moran has written extensively as a research analyst and editor at BCC Research. The topics of his reports include various deposition technologies, displays, solar energy and solid-state lighting. Mr. Moran has been writing for BCC Research for more than 20 years. He earned a B.S. degree in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.

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DISCLAIMER

The information developed in this report is intended to be as reliable as possible at the time of publication and of a professional nature. This information does not constitute managerial, legal, or accounting advice; nor should it serve as a corporate policy guide, laboratory manual, or an endorsement of any product, as much of the information is speculative in nature. The author assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage that might result from reliance on the reported information or from its use.