Abrasives Manufacturing Industry Profile

Companies in this industry manufacture coated and bonded abrasive products, including grinding wheels, sandpaper, and abrasive grains. Major companies include 3M (US), Huanghe Whirlwind (China), Noritake (Japan), Robert Bosch (Germany), Saint-Gobain (France), and Tyrolit (Austria).

The global abrasives manufacturing industry is estimated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2021 to 2031, reaching about $100 billion by the end of the period, according to Transparency Research. The Asia Pacific region accounts for the largest share in the global abrasives market.

The US abrasives manufacturing industry includes about 300 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $5 billion.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand for manufactured industrial products is the major driver of sales for abrasives. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations, as many products are considered commodities. Large companies enjoy economies of scale in purchasing. Small companies can compete effectively by specializing in products for particular manufacturing functions. The US industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 90% of revenue.

Imports account for about 30% of the US market. The largest suppliers to the US are China, Canada, Mexico, and Germany. Exports, which make up 25% of US production, go mainly to Mexico, Canada, and Germany.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Abrasive products are made of hard mineral grains and are used to manufacture products including metal, plastics, glass, and wood. Abrasives are used to ...