332991: Ball and Roller Bearing Manufacturing

What this code covers

Census defines 332991 as plants whose main product is ball and roller bearings of any material. That includes the races, balls, rollers, and cages that go into them. Plain bearings and bushings are classified with mechanical power transmission equipment under 333613, not here.

For defense and aerospace the code covers airframe control bearings, engine and gearbox bearings, wheel bearings for aircraft and vehicles, precision instrument bearings, and heavy roller bearings for ship machinery. Some suppliers in this code are distributors that assemble or modify bearings rather than make them from raw stock.

What federal buyers typically ask for

DLA Aviation and DLA Land and Maritime post most bearing notices, by national stock number, often as long-term contracts because bearings are repeat items. Navy and Army aviation activities post engine and rotor bearings for overhaul. Vehicle depots post wheel and gearbox bearings.

Bearings carry a rule that most codes do not. A DFARS clause restricts the government to ball and roller bearings made in the United States or Canada, and it flows down to bearings inside other parts. Many aircraft and engine bearings are critical safety items with an approved source list, so source approval is the gate. Expect precision grade callouts, material and heat treat certs, first article on a new source, traceability by lot, and preservation and packaging rules aimed at corrosion.

Small business set-asides appear on commercial grade bearings. Precision aviation bearings usually go unrestricted to approved sources, and the same few firms tend to hold them.