PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803309
PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803309
U.S. Metal Forging Market Overview
The U.S. metal forging market was valued at USD 8.1 billion in 2024 and is set to grow at a CAGR of 6.5%, reaching USD 13.3 billion by 2032. This expansion is largely driven by the increasing demand for durable metallic components across industries such as automotive, aerospace, defense, and construction.
Government-backed infrastructure and defense initiatives are significant growth catalysts. For instance, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act have collectively allocated over USD 1.7 trillion to revamp public infrastructure and support industrial growth. In tandem, the Department of Defense's METAL program is set to train over 122,000 skilled tradespeople by 2028, fortifying the domestic supply chain and boosting production capacity.
Technological strides in forging processes, such as closed-die and open-die methods, are enhancing production efficiency and output quality. The surge in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing and the growth of renewable energy projects further amplify the demand for forged components, solidifying the industry's long-term prospects.
Key Insights
Carbon steel dominated the raw material segment in 2024 with a 70% share due to its cost-effectiveness, strength, and recyclability. It is extensively used in automotive, construction, and machinery applications.
Titanium is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during 2025-2032, driven by its increasing use in aerospace, defense, and medical industries owing to its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.
Closed-die forging held the largest technology market share at 60% in 2024. It remains the preferred method for mass-producing precise and complex parts for automotive and aerospace sectors.
Open-die forging is projected to register the highest growth rate, supported by the demand for large, customized components in infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
The automotive sector accounted for 65% of the end-use market in 2024, primarily due to the essential role of forged metal in critical components like crankshafts, transmissions, and chassis.
The oil & gas industry is set to grow the fastest, owing to increasing demand for durable, high-strength forged components used in drilling and pipeline operations.
Regionally, the Midwest led the U.S. market in 2024 with a 40% share, propelled by established manufacturing hubs in Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois. The region benefits from proximity to raw material suppliers and a skilled labor force.
The South is anticipated to witness the fastest regional growth due to expanding aerospace and automotive manufacturing, coupled with business-friendly policies and infrastructural development.
Technological advancements, such as the integration of CAD, CAM, and CAE tools, are transforming forging operations by improving accuracy, reducing errors, and enabling real-time control over processes.
AI-enhanced CAE platforms are optimizing quality and consistency in production, while 3D printing is revolutionizing the forging of complex, lightweight components for aerospace and automotive applications.
Competitive dynamics are shaped by key players like Precision Castparts Corp., Alcoa Corporation, Ellwood Group, and ATI Forgings, who dominate high-value sectors through long-term OEM contracts and advanced manufacturing capabilities.
In April 2024, ELLWOOD expanded its specialty metal production with a new 20-ton vacuum induction melting facility in Pennsylvania.
In December 2023, Canton Drop Forge partnered with Weld Mold to advance employee welding skills, enhancing workforce capability.
The market is consolidated, with leading firms leveraging scale, innovation, and strategic partnerships to maintain dominance and explore new growth avenues across high-tech and traditional industries.