Price Ranges for Antifriction Metals

Antifriction metals, commonly known as bearing materials, are often used in applications that require low friction and wear resistance, such as bearings, bushings, and other moving parts. The price of antifriction metals can vary significantly based on several factors, including the specific type of material, size and shape, application, and market conditions at the time of purchase.

Typical Price Ranges for Common Antifriction Metals:

  1. Bronze:

    • Price Range: $2 to $15 per pound, depending on the alloy and the specific application.
  2. Brass:

    • Price Range: $3 to $10 per pound, with variations based on the composition and market demand.
  3. Aluminum Alloys:

    • Price Range: $1.50 to $6 per pound. The price may rise depending on the specific alloy and its properties.
  4. Babbitt Metal:

    • Price Range: $5 to $30 per pound. The price often depends on the specific formulation and purity.
  5. Polymer Composites (like PTFE or PEEK):

    • Price Range: $10 to $50 per pound. High-performance composites can be on the higher end of this range.
  6. Steel Bearings:

    • Price Range: $0.10 to $5 per piece, depending on size and specifications.

Factors Influencing Prices:

  • Material Composition: Alloys with higher performance characteristics will generally be more expensive.
  • Market Demand: Global demand for specific metals can affect prices, especially in industries like automotive and aerospace.
  • Form and Size: Custom shapes or larger sizes may come at a premium.
  • Supplier: Different suppliers may offer varying prices based on their sourcing and production capabilities.

Industry Trends:

  • Increased use of lightweight, high-performance materials which can drive up costs.
  • Sustainable practices are creating demand for recycled antifriction materials, potentially influencing market prices.
  • Innovations and advancements in composite materials can lead to new pricing structures.

Conclusion:

When considering antifriction metals for projects or applications, it's essential to evaluate not only the price but also performance requirements, longevity, and replacement costs. For the most accurate data, checking with suppliers or industry reports may be necessary, as prices can fluctuate due to changing market conditions.