Metal Abrasives Market Expected to Reach $9.6 Billion by 2032—Allied Market Research

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Metal Abrasives Market," The metal abrasives market was valued at $6.2 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $9.6 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2032.

Metal abrasives are small, hard particles made from various metals and alloys that are used for cutting, grinding, polishing, and other surface preparation applications. These abrasives are typically produced through a process of crushing, milling, and screening, which creates particles of varying sizes and shapes. Metal abrasives are typically made from hardened metals and alloys, which allow them to effectively remove material from surfaces without causing excessive damage. This makes them ideal for applications where a high level of precision and control is required, such as in the manufacturing of aerospace components or medical devices.

The unique property of metal abrasives is their durability and longevity. These abrasives are designed to withstand repeated use without becoming worn or damaged. The durability of metal abrasives can also make them more cost-effective in the long run, as they may need to be replaced less frequently than other types of abrasives.

Metal abrasives can also be used in both wet and dry environments. Wet blasting, also known as wet abrasive blasting, involves using a mixture of water and abrasive media to clean or prepare surfaces. Dry blasting involves using dry abrasive media to remove material from surfaces. The choice of wet or dry blasting will depend on the specific application and the type of metal abrasive being used.

The growth of the global metal abrasives market is majorly attributable to its wide applications in various industries such as automotive, metalworking, building and construction, machinery and equipment, and others. Moreover, the growing demand of metal abrasives for energy-efficient and lightweight materials is expected to drive the market growth during the forecast period. However, health hazards with respect to metal abrasives is projected to hinder the expansion of the market. On the contrary, the increase in usage of metal abrasives in 3D printing and other advanced manufacturing technologies are expected to offer ample growth opportunities for the metal abrasives market. 

Rise in demand for metal abrasives in the construction industry drives the market growth of metal abrasives. The increasing demand for metal abrasives in industries like aerospace, automotive, construction, and manufacturing is driven by the need to develop sustainable and eco-friendly products. Metal abrasives are used for surface preparation, cleaning, and finishing of metallic components in the production of lightweight and energy-efficient materials. Surface preparation is crucial for these materials as it removes contaminants and improves their performance. Metal abrasives, like shot peening, can enhance fatigue strength and crack resistance.

The metal abrasives is segmented into material type, type, and end-use industry. On the basis of material type, the market is bifurcated into steel and others. On the basis of type, the market is divided into coated abrasives, bonded abrasives, and super abrasives. On the basis of end-use industry, the market is categorized into automotive, metalworking, building and constructions, machinery and equipment, and others. Region-wise the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA.

By material type glass beads, ceramic beads, garnet and others segment is the fastest growing segment of the metal abrasives market in 2022. Glass bead abrasives are typically employed in general maintenance and blast cleaning tasks, while ceramic beads are commonly utilized for surface finishing, polishing, and deburring purposes. Ceramic beads are favored when a smooth and even finish is desired, as they can achieve a consistent surface without leaving noticeable marks or scratches.

By type super abrasives segment is the fastest growing segment of the metal abrasives market in 2022. Super abrasives find extensive use in various industries. In the oil and gas sector, they are employed to drill and shape hard rock formations and cut pipes and components. The medical and dental industries utilize super abrasives for grinding and shaping medical implants, dental prosthetics, and precision components. They are also crucial in manufacturing medical instruments and tools like surgical blades and drills, where precision and durability are paramount.

By end-use industry marine, oil and gas, and others segment is the fastest growing segment of the metal abrasives market in 2022. Metal abrasives are widely utilized in the marine industry for surface preparation and cleaning of ships, boats, and other marine structures. Their main function is to eliminate old paint, rust, and other pollutants from the metal surface. Similarly, in the oil and gas industry, metal abrasives are employed for surface preparation and cleaning of equipment, structures, and pipelines.

The major players operating in the global metal abrasives market include 3M Company, Air Blast-Abrasives B.V., Camel Grinding Wheels Works Sarid Ltd, Ervin Industries, Finishing Systems, Inc., KLINGSPOR Abrasives, Inc., Metaltec Steel AbrasiveC10 Co., Noritake Co., Ltd., Saint Gobain, and W Abrasives.

Key findings of the study

• By material type, the steel segment was dominated the market in 2022.
• By, type the bonded abrasives segment was the highest revenue contributor to the market in 2022.
• By end-use industry, the metalworking segment was dominated the market and accounted more than one third of the market share in 2022.
• By region, Asia-Pacific was the highest revenue contributed in 2022, and is estimated to register a CAGR of 5.1%.