In another decision with industrial PVF implications, in late February the ITC voted down relief against pneumatic directional control valves from Japan.

Edgen Corp. announced the creation of a corporate purchasing department responsible for the procurement of carbon steel pipe.

Wheatland Tube's anticipated purchase of the Sawhill Tubular Div. of AK Steel Corp. may be completed by the time you read this.

American Cast Iron Pipe Co. recently completed an $80 million melt shop expansion at its Birmingham, Ala.-cast iron and steel pipe mill.

Pro Metals Inc., a master distributor of nickel and stainless piping products, relocated to a larger office/warehouse in Houston.

Watts Industries has agreed to form a joint venture with the Yuhuan County Cheng Guan Metal Hose Factory located in Taizhou, Zhejiang Province of the Peoples Republic of China.

Edgen Corp. also announced its intent to acquire Service Industrial Supply Co. (SISCO).

Institute for Supply Management: Economic activity in the manufacturing sector indicated growth in February, ending 18 consecutive months of decline.

CCI, a severe-service control valve manufacturer, has completed a multimillion dollar expansion of its headquarters in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Florida-based Bartow Steel named Bill Moore president.