A bearing price list, a valve price list or a fastener price per kg is only useful if the item behind it is fully defined. Grade, size, tolerance class and standard decide the number, so a list without them can mislead you.
We do not publish prices. This article covers what drives cost in each of the three catalogue products and how to ask for a quote against a specification.
What decides bearing prices?
Bearings are priced by type, size, precision class, steel quality and brand status. A deep-groove ball bearing is a simpler item than a tapered roller or spherical roller bearing, and larger sizes use more steel and cost more to grind.
Precision class (ISO tolerance class, such as normal, P6 or P5), internal clearance, cage material, seals and grease also change the cost. Bearing standards and tolerance classes explains the codes. Two bearings with the same number but different steel cleanliness will not last equally long, so ask for the steel grade and heat-treatment standard.
What decides valve prices?
Valves are priced by type, size, pressure class, body material and end connection. Gate, globe, ball, check and butterfly valves each have different build costs.
These points have the largest effect:
- Body and trim material, such as cast iron, carbon steel, stainless steel or alloy steel.
- Pressure rating, for example PN or ANSI class, and the design standard behind it. See valve standards: API, ANSI and DIN.
- Seat and seal material, which decides temperature range and chemical compatibility.
- Testing and documentation required, such as hydrostatic test reports and material certificates.
What decides fastener prices per kg?
Fasteners are often quoted per kilogram or per thousand pieces. Price follows the property class or grade, the raw material, the size and length, the surface finish and the lot quantity.
A high-tensile grade needs heat treatment, which adds cost. Zinc plating, hot-dip galvanising and stainless steel each change the price. Standards such as ISO, DIN and ASTM also matter, and fastener grades and standards shows how to state them. Per-kg quotes are hard to compare across sizes, so ask for a price per piece too.
How do you quote against a specification?
Give every supplier the same list: item, size, standard, grade or class, finish, quantity and test reports needed. Ask for the quote on one delivery term and ask which items are stock and which are made to order.
Comparing engineering quotes shows how to line replies up. If a reply is vague about material or standard, treat it as incomplete, not cheap.
Quantity matters more than most buyers expect. Standard catalogue sizes may be held in stock, while special sizes, seals or clearances may need a production run, which is why minimum order quantities differ item by item. Ask each supplier for a quote on three quantity levels, so you can see how the terms change as your order grows.
Finally, ask for a sample lot with a test report before you commit to a large order, and keep the reference sample so you can compare later shipments against it.
Next step
We find and audit makers of bearings, valves and fasteners, check samples and test reports, and supervise loading. To get quotes against your own spec, book a free sourcing review.