Oil and gas spell growth for valves
15 Jan 2000
The floodgates seem set to remain resolutely shut for valve and actuator manufacturers. The market sector is facing a 'potential yearly decline' of some £76 million, according to a survey from MarketLine International.
The chemical, power, pharmaceutical, waste and water, pulp and paper and beverages sectors are all set to decline, in some cases by as much as 6 per cent between 1995 and 1997, says the survey. However, the oil and gas sector will grow by 5.4 per cent, it adds; this sector is now worth some £100 million, mostly thanks to upgrading of the pipeline network and increased activity in the North Sea. Overall, the market will edge up by just 1.1 per cent.
Companies will find the going even harder if they do not take notice of new technology, the report adds. PC-based digital communication will mean that the market leaders will be those who can offer entry-level packages of valves, positioners and fieldbus communication systems.
