Pipe Dreams

Demand for large-diameter pipe in the United States is forecast to increase 2.4 percent per year through 2009, according to a recent study issued by the Cleveland-based research firm the Freedonia Group.

Concrete pipe will remain the largest segment with demand growing 1.9 percent to 112 million feet demanded by 2009, the study predicts.

However, plastic pipe will grow more rapidly, expanding 4.7 percent annually to 42.3 million feet demanded by 2009. The study predicts that by 2009, plastic piping will account for 20 percent of the demand for large-diameter pipe.

HDPE will remain the leading plastic pipe resin with good opportunities anticipated in corrugated pipe and water distribution uses.