There are numerous factors driving the railway grease market. The primary factor is the increasing demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly products. This is due to the growing awareness of environmental issues and the need to reduce carbon footprints. Additionally, the rising cost of traditional fuel sources is another key driver of the market. The increasing use of renewable energy sources such as solar energy and wind power is also expected to drive market growth. The railway industry is undergoing a major transition with the introduction of new technologies such as advanced track systems and automated trains. This is resulting in increased demand for railway grease, as it helps to reduce friction and wear on tracks and train wheel. Additionally, railway grease provides superior protection against corrosion, which is another key driver of market growth.
There are a number of reasons why the railway grease market is needed. Firstly, grease is required in order to lubricate the various moving parts of a train, such as the wheels and bearings. This helps to reduce friction and wear, and ensures that the train runs smoothly. Secondly, grease also helps to protect these parts from corrosion, which can cause serious damage over time. Thirdly, grease can also help to keep dust and other debris out of the moving parts, which can again improve efficiency and prevent damage. Finally, using the correct type of grease can also improve fuel economy by reducing friction.
The market for railway grease is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.4% from 2019 to 2026. The major factor driving the growth of the market is the increasing demand for railway transportation globally. The other factors that are expected to contribute to the growth of the market include the growing industrialization and urbanization, and the increasing investment in infrastructure development.
A railway grease is a type of grease that is specifically designed for use in railway applications. It is typically made from a lithium or calcium base and contains a variety of additives that improve its performance in extreme conditions. Railway greases are used to lubricate rail curves, switch plates and turnouts, bearings and wheels, and other moving parts of the railway system. They are designed to withstand the high temperatures, pressures, and speeds associated with railways. Railway grease is an important part of maintaining a safe and efficient railway system. It helps to reduce friction and wear on rails and other components, while also protecting against corrosion. The right type of railway grease can improve the performance of the railway system and extend the life of its components.
The railway grease market size is estimated to be USD 503 million in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 735 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 4.5%.
The growth of the railway grease market can be attributed to the growing demand for energy-efficient and low-maintenance railway infrastructure. The requirement for corrosion resistance and extreme pressure (EP) properties has also increased, owing to the need for reliable operations under demanding conditions.
The restraining factors of the railway grease market are as follows:
1. The high cost of raw materials: The main raw materials used in the production of railway grease are lithium and calcium. These two minerals are quite expensive, which makes railway grease one of the more costly lubricants on the market.
2. The stringent regulations regarding its use: Railway grease must meet certain standards in order to be used on railways. These standards are set by international organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
3. The limited applications: Railway grease is only used for a few specific applications, such as lubricating rail curves, switch plates, and bearings. It cannot be used as a general-purpose lubricant.
However, increasing demand will defenetily boost the market.
Some of the key players operating in this market include ExxonMobil Corporation (U.S.), Royal Dutch Shell plc (Netherlands), Chevron Corporation (U.S.), Total S.A.(France), Fuchs Lubricants Co.(Germany), British Petroleum plc.(U.K.), Lukoil(Russia), Sinopec(China), Petrochina(China) and Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.(Japan).
Railway Grease Market Scope
Metrics | Details |
Base Year | 2023 |
Historic Data | 2018-2022 |
Forecast Period | 2024-2031 |
Study Period | 2018-2031 |
Forecast Unit | Value (USD) |
Revenue forecast in 2031 | USD 735 million |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 4.5% during 2021-2031 |
Segment Covered | Type, Application, Regions |
Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa |
Key Players Profiled | ExxonMobil Corporation (U.S.), Royal Dutch Shell plc (Netherlands), Chevron Corporation (U.S.), Total S.A.(France), Fuchs Lubricants Co.(Germany), British Petroleum plc.(U.K.), Lukoil(Russia), Sinopec(China), Petrochina(China) and Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.(Japan). |
Segment Analysis
Thebearings & wheels application segment to form major portion of the market
The bearings & wheels application segment is expected to hold the largest share of the railway grease market during the forecast period. Bearings & wheels are one of the most critical components of a railway system and require regular maintenance. Grease is used in bearings & wheels to protect them from wear and tear, reduce friction, and improve their overall performance.
The Lithium grease Segment to be on top of the market
Lithium grease is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Lithium greases are made with a soap base and have good extreme-pressure (EP) properties. They also have excellent resistance to water and low temperature. Furthermore, these greases can be used over a wide range of temperatures, making them ideal for use in high-temperature applications.
Asia-Pacific to dominate the market
The Asia Pacific region is expected to be the largest market for railway grease, due to the growing demand from China and India. The North American region is projected to be the second-largest market for railway grease, due to the growing demand from the U.S. and Canada.
Covid-19 Impact & Market Status
The COVID-19 outbreak has had a significant impact on the railway grease market. The outbreak of COVID-19 has led to a decrease in demand for railway grease, as the transportation sector has been adversely affected.
Latest Innovations in the Global Railway Grease Market: A Snapshot
• In September 2019, Ford Motor Company announced the launch of the all-new 2020 Explorer SUV. The Explorer is available in standard, XLT, Limited, ST and Platinum trims.
• In May 2019, General Motors introduced the refreshed 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban SUVs. The new SUVs feature an updated grille and front fascia, LED headlamps and daytime running lamps, a revised rear fascia and new taillamps.
• In March 2019, Toyota Motor Corporation announced the launch of the all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander SUV in the United States. The Highlander is available in L, LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum trim levels.
Key Segment of Global Railway Grease Market
By Type Overview (USD Million)
• Lithium Grease
• Calcium Crease
• Others
By Application Overview (USD Million)
• Rail Curves
• Rail Switch Plates and Turnouts
• Bearings & Wheels
• Others
By Region Overview (USD Million)
North America
• USA
• Canada
Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Rest of Asia Pacific
South America
• Mexico
• Brazil
• Rest of North America
Europe
• Germany
• France
• UK
• Rest of Europe
Middle East and Africa