Spirax Sarco is opening its fifth Steam Technology Training Center in the U.S.

Maverick Tube Corp. has appointed Brion Talley as its vice president - steel sourcing.

Worldwide stainless crude steel production declined by 1.0% to 24.3 million metric tons (mmt) in 2005, according to the International Stainless Steel Forum (ISSF). It was the first decline in yearly production since 2001. Production was cut in the second half of 2005 due to dramatically reduced demand attributed to stock reductions by distributors and manufacturers.

Victaulic has launched a new micro-Web site devoted to the issues, trends and challenges associated with compressed schedule projects.

Sun Pipe and Valves, LLC, a multi-line stocking wholesale distributor of industrial PVF and waterworks products, has opened in the Saint Lucie West, FL, industrial area. Formed in 2005, the distribution company operates out of a $2 million, three-and-a-half-acre, 35,000-sq-ft. facility and warehouse.

The following are summaries of industrial construction in various parts of the country as of mid-March through mid-April, compiled by Industrial Info Resources.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) announced on April 6 as a result of its five-year (sunset) reviews to keep antidumping duty orders on imports of small diameter carbon and alloy seamless standard, line and pressure pipe from Japan and Romania, and large diameter carbon and alloy seamless standard, line and pressure pipe from Japan.

The increase in heavy commercial and industrial construction projects in the U.S. is causing problems for plant owners and developers procuring the necessary construction equipment for construction sites, according to Industrial Information Resources.

Cooper Cameron has elected John Carne, president of the Cooper Cameron Valves Division, as a senior vice president of the parent company, Cooper Cameron Corp. Carne was previously a vice president of Cooper Cameron and will continue in his role as president of CCV, a position he has held since April 2002.

Maverick Tube Corp. has entered into a marketing agreement with Rocky Mountain Steel Mills (RMSM), whereby Maverick will have the exclusive worldwide right to market and sell RMSM premium seamless oil country tubular goods (OCTG) products. This agreement is for a minimum of 48,000 tons per year and commences immediately.