Demand for pipe in the United States is expected to increase 2/4% per year to 14.7 billion ft. in the year 2003, according to a new study from the Freedonia Group.

Demand for pipe in the United States is expected to increase 2.4% per year to 14.7 billion ft. in the year 2003, according to a new study, "Plastic & Competitive Pipe," from The Freedonia Group, an industrial-market research firm. Growth will be fueled by the need to rebuild or replace aging or deteriorating pipe systems or networks.

While copper pipe will remain the footage leader, plastic pipe will be the fastest growing pipe material because of its light weight, corrosion resistance, long service life and lower installed costs, the study stated.

Polyvinyl chloride will continue to be the most popular plastic pipe resin. Construction will remain the leading market for pipe, accounting for 44% of total demand.