STATE-OF-THE-NORTH AMERICAN P/M INDUSTRY-2002

摘要

Generally speaking, business conditions in the U.S. P/M industry are looking brighter after a negative 2001 but the effect on P/M companies involved in all sectors of the industry is inconsistent. Some companies are enjoying a great year while other, especially in the P/M equipment sector, are having difficult times. First quarter 2002 shipments of metal powders point to a steady rise in the production of metal powders and thus P/M parts and products. Industry leaders are cautiously optimistic about the rest of this year, but do not see a strong rebound taking place until at least 2003. Some observers see 2004 and 2005 as very strong growth years.