North American metal powder shipments hit record levels in 2000, reaching 562,633 short tons, according to Donald G. White, executive director of the Metal Powder Industries Federation. “Through 2000 the PM industry has experienced nine years of continuous growth,” White said. The iron powder market increased about 0.5% in 2000, rising to 445,343 short tons, compared to 443,253 short tons in 1999. The PM parts and friction materials share of the iron powder market, which is 93% of the total market, experienced a slight increase to 413,730 short tons, in 2000, compared to 412,170 short tons in 1999. Copper and copper alloy business was about even with 1999 in 2000, according to the federation. However, stainless steel powder shipments grew 18%, to an estimated 8500 short tons, compared to 7157 short tons in 1999. The growth in stainless was attributed to increased demand for PM stainless auto exhaust parts, such as flanges and sensor bosses.
