Carbon Steel Fitting and Flange Sales Still Strong

From the new ASA Commodities Report, a monthly free ASA-member benefit written by members of ASA’s Industrial Piping Division Advisory Council, carbon steel fitting and flange sales are still strong, although quote activity has been declining, which is not uncommon for June; however, aggressive pricing and inventory concerns continue to drive the market down, especially for larger orders.

Prices: Domestic flange and fitting prices are stabilized, with no new price changes being announced. Imported product costs continue to decrease in the range of 10% - 15%.

Shipping costs: Shipping containers have become more readily available and are driving costs down in the range of 2k – 4k.  Domestic freight has also come down and seems to be stable.

Deliveries: Generic import flanges have lower lead times now in the 4–6-month range, with generic import fittings in that same time frame. Domestic flanges and fittings have come down as well in the 4–6-week delivery range. High yield continues to have very long lead times 12-14 weeks range.

Looking forward: Although quote activity has come down slightly, the market is still healthy and with Q3 ahead, it usually proves to be one of the stronger quarters of the year. Also, the continuation of refinery turnarounds, plant upgrades and new ventures, the last half of the year looks to remain stable and slightly up.

To access the full June ASA Commodities Report, click here.