Three of the largest industrial pipe, valve and fitting distributors have joined forces to create a $330-million distribution company, projected to be the fifth largest PVF wholesaler in the country.

Precision Castparts Corp. announced the acquisitions of Valtaco, a division of the Ostaco AG, in a deal valued at $7 million and of Reiss Valves from the Reiss Engineering Co. Ltd. for about $3 million.

Dave Ash has been appointed manager of codes and approvals.

Mike Elkins is named district manager and Earl Campbell the operations manager.

Cooper-Cameron Valves has named Paul Luckey to the position of international purchasing manager.

Roger Phillips, president/CEO since 1982, will retire at year-end.

Economic activity in the manufacturing sector declined for the 15th consecutive month in October, according to the Manufacturing Report on Business by the National Association of Purchasing Managers.

Tubular Steel named Robert W. Klasing president/CEO.

Makers of corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) and other supporters are using earthquake risk as a key argument in challenging a preliminary decision by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) not to continue recognizing CSST in the proposed 2001 edition of the California Plumbing Code.

An analysis of industrial plant closures vs. start-ups by IIR shows a net loss of 40 plants in the five-year period 1996-2000.