The History and Evolution of Akron Bearing: A Vital Part of Akron, Ohio's Industrial Legacy

Akron, Ohio, has a rich industrial history, and Akron Bearing has been a vital part of that legacy for over a century. Founded in 1916, the company has grown to become one of the world's leading manufacturers of bearings, and its products are used in a wide range of applications, from automotive to aerospace.

The Early Years

The company was founded by William H. Morgan and Frank C. Devereux, who had previously worked for the Timken Roller Bearing Company. They started out manufacturing bearings for the automotive industry, and their products quickly gained a reputation for quality and reliability.

Table 1: Milestones in Akron Bearing's History

| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1916 | Company founded |
| 1918 | First major contract to supply bearings for Ford Model T |
| 1920 | Company moves to new plant on East Waterloo Road |
| 1929 | Company becomes publicly traded |
| 1930 | Company opens new plant in Ashtabula, Ohio |

Akron Bearing's Growth and Expansion

Akron Bearing continued to grow throughout the 20th century, expanding its product line and opening new plants. In 1950, the company acquired the Hoover Ball and Bearing Company, which gave it a major presence in the bearing industry.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Akron Bearing continued to expand its international operations, opening plants in Europe and Asia. The company also began to develop new products, such as linear bearings and needle bearings.

Akron Bearing Today

Today, Akron Bearing is a global company with over 10,000 employees. The company's products are used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and agriculture. Akron Bearing is also a major supplier of bearings for the wind energy industry.

The Benefits of Akron Bearing's Products

Akron Bearing's products offer a number of benefits, including:

• High quality: Akron Bearing's products are manufactured to the highest quality standards, and they meet or exceed all industry specifications.
• Reliability: Akron Bearing's products are known for their reliability, and they can withstand even the most demanding operating conditions.
• Durability: Akron Bearing's products are built to last, and they can provide years of trouble-free operation.
• Efficiency: Akron Bearing's products are designed to be efficient, and they can help to reduce energy consumption.
• Cost-effectiveness: Akron Bearing's products are priced competitively, and they offer a good value for the money.

Table 2: Akron Bearing's Product Line

| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Ball bearings | Bearings that use balls as the rolling elements |
| Roller bearings | Bearings that use rollers as the rolling elements |
| Linear bearings | Bearings that allow for linear motion |
| Needle bearings | Bearings that use small, needle-shaped rollers |
| Thrust bearings | Bearings that support axial loads |

How Akron Bearing's Products Are Used

Akron Bearing's products are used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Automotive: Akron Bearing's products are used in a variety of automotive applications, including engines, transmissions, and differentials.
• Aerospace: Akron Bearing's products are used in a variety of aerospace applications, including aircraft engines, landing gear, and flight control systems.
• Construction: Akron Bearing's products are used in a variety of construction applications, including cranes, excavators, and bulldozers.
• Agriculture: Akron Bearing's products are used in a variety of agricultural applications, including tractors, combines, and irrigation systems.
• Wind energy: Akron Bearing's products are used in a variety of wind energy applications, including wind turbines and gearboxes.

Table 3: Akron Bearing's Global Presence

| Country | Number of Plants |
|---|---|
| United States | 5 |
| Canada | 1 |
| Mexico | 1 |
| Brazil | 1 |
| China | 2 |
| India | 1 |
| Japan | 1 |

Why Akron Bearing Matters

Akron Bearing is a vital part of Akron, Ohio's industrial legacy. The company's products are used in a wide range of industries, and they play a vital role in the global economy. Akron Bearing is also a major employer in Akron, and its employees are proud to contribute to the company's success.

How Akron Bearing Benefits Akron

Akron Bearing benefits Akron in a number of ways, including:

• Jobs: Akron Bearing is a major employer in Akron, and its employees are paid good wages and benefits.
• Economic development: Akron Bearing's products are used in a wide range of industries, and the company's success helps to boost the local economy.
• Innovation: Akron Bearing is a leader in the development of new bearing products, and its innovations help to improve the performance and efficiency of machinery.
• Community involvement: Akron Bearing is a major supporter of the Akron community, and its employees volunteer their time to a variety of local organizations.

Conclusion

Akron Bearing is a vital part of Akron, Ohio's industrial legacy. The company's products are used in a wide range of industries, and they play a vital role in the global economy. Akron Bearing is also a major employer in Akron, and its employees are proud to contribute to the company's success.