The Timken Company (USA; NYSE: TKR; 5251R9N7) has laid off another 54 employees from its miniature and precision bearing manufacturing plant in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

Just a few months ago, Lebanon laid off 45 workers, citing continued weakness in the non-defense end of the aircraft and aerospace industry, Lebanon's primary market.
The Lebanon factory manufactures high-precision ball and roller bearings for defense and commercial aircraft and aerospace applications and industries.

Although not directly involved in the ever-problematic auto industry slump, Lebanon's non-defense customers are feeling the economic slowdown in terms of people flying commercial airlines less, which translates to less aircraft maintenance required, and fewer bearings.

Approximately 650 people are employed at Lebanon, which is also home to a key Timken technology center, and an FAA-certified repair and reconditioning facility for aircraft engine bearings.