A number of factors continue to push fitting and flange prices higher. Demand remained steady in the U.S. as upstream and downstream petroleum activity increased year-over-year. In addition, tariff and anti-dumping supply risk added to price stability.

The U.S. Producer Price Index for fittings hit an all-time high in November at 190.5. The index has been steadily increasing since May of 2018.

In addition, the government shutdown put a temporary hold on certain state and federal infrastructure projects, some of which could have impacted a small amount of flange and fittings demand, and the impact may continue through the first half of 2019.

The American Supply Association (ASA) and its Industrial Piping Division (IPD) is the national organization serving wholesaler-distributors and their suppliers in the industrial and mechanical pipe-valve-fitting industry.  As a powerful alliance of channel partners, we provide a forum for your upstream trading partners to exchange critical information and address key issues.

In particular, ASA’s IPD members constantly check the pulse of the materials and commodities they proudly supply to you.  ASA’s IPD members are knowledgeable industry leaders, and those who volunteer their service on the IPD Executive Council compile and prepare the IPD Commodity Reports.  The Reports contain some of the most current and qualified market data and information available from the industry’s leading manufacturers and distributors about emerging trends and other price-influencing actions and events.

This information is an example of how ASA’s IPD manufacturer and distributor members are constantly looking ahead to ensure you have information and resources you need to be successful.  Learn more at www.AdvanceYourAbility.com.