Feb 17 2009
Properties of copper such as excellent thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, and machinability enable application of pipes across various end-use markets such as plumbing, air conditioning & refrigeration, and other industrial applications. Though copper is one of the ideal materials for plumbing applications, rapid increase in price has led to substitution by competing materials, mainly steel and various plastic pipes.
However, the metal's inherent strengths such as corrosion resistance and durability, and high thermal efficiency are expected to drive recovery in the coming years. Additionally, the bactericidal property of copper is gaining importance worldwide, which is also expected to drive demand in the global copper pipes and tubes market.
Traditionally large markets for copper pipes and tubes such as North America, Japan, and Western Europe are witnessing negative or flat demand, as stated in a recent report published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. Growth in the market is projected to emanate from emerging economies in Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe and Middle east. Despite slowdown in the global economy, these markets are expected to increase significantly over the next few years owing to continuing economic development. China represents the largest as well as the fastest growing market for copper pipes and tubes in the world. Ongoing industrialization and urbanization activity in the region are acting as major growth drivers for copper as well as copper pipes and tubes market.
Some of key players profiled in the study include Cerro Flow Products, Inc, Crane Group Limited, Foshan Shunde Lecong Hengxin Copper Tube Factory, Global Brass and Copper, Inc., Hitachi Cable, Ltd., KME Group S.p.A., Kobelco & Materials Copper Tube, Ltd, Luvata Oy, Mueller Industries, Inc., Ningbo Jintian Copper, and The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
"Copper Pipes & Tubes: A Global Strategic Business Report" published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc., provides a comprehensive review of market dynamics and trends in the Copper Pipes & Tubes market. The report enumerates recent product introductions/innovations, mergers, acquisitions and other strategic industry activities. Analysis is presented for established and emerging markets including the United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World.