PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803221
PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803221
The U.S. metal pipe and tube market reached a valuation of USD 17.5 billion in 2024 and is poised to expand at a robust CAGR of 5.2% through 2032, ultimately hitting USD 26.0 billion by the end of the forecast period. This steady growth is attributed to a combination of reshoring initiatives in manufacturing, aggressive infrastructure development, and increasing urbanization. With the U.S. population growing to 340.1 million in 2024 and nearly 80% residing in urban areas, the demand for resilient infrastructure has never been higher.
The ongoing industrialization and renewed interest in domestic oil and gas exploration further amplify the market's momentum. As environmental regulations tighten, industries are turning to advanced, corrosion-resistant materials and innovative manufacturing techniques to meet performance and sustainability goals. Moreover, the government's allocation of nearly USD 550 billion under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) underscores its commitment to strengthening water systems, public utilities, and energy grids, thereby elevating the demand for durable and high-performing metal pipes and tubes.
Key Insights
The steel category dominated the market in 2024, accounting for 65% of the revenue due to its affordability and strength, making it indispensable in oil & gas, chemical processing, and food manufacturing applications.
Nickel and nickel alloys are projected to experience the fastest growth, driven by their thermal stability and corrosion resistance in demanding environments such as aerospace and hypersonic systems.
Welded pipes and tubes held a commanding 75% market share in 2024, favored for their cost-effectiveness and adaptability in construction and infrastructure projects. ERW pipes are especially common in plumbing and exhaust systems.
Seamless pipes and tubes will register the fastest CAGR through 2032, owing to their essential role in high-pressure, high-temperature environments like refineries and power plants.
Direct sales led the distribution channels with a 70% market share in 2024, driven by large-volume industrial procurement and customization needs in sectors like oil & gas and energy.
E-commerce channels are growing rapidly, supported by real-time inventory tracking and a simplified procurement process favored by contractors and fabricators.
Oil & gas emerged as the leading end-use industry, claiming 60% of the market in 2024. Metallic pipes remain critical for upstream, midstream, and downstream operations, enduring extreme conditions and corrosion.
Energy & utilities will exhibit the fastest growth, driven by investments in solar, wind, and hydrogen infrastructure. The modernization of outdated grids and water systems also fuels demand for advanced piping.
The South dominated the regional market in 2024 with a 40% share, propelled by Gulf Coast's robust petrochemical and oil & gas operations. The region's demand for corrosion-resistant piping remains high due to harsh chemical applications.
The West will grow the fastest, backed by eco-innovation and a thriving aerospace sector. Specialized tubing for renewable energy and high-performance alloys for aerospace applications are in strong demand.
The market remains fragmented, with regional suppliers serving general-use needs, while global players focus on high-tech applications with strict compliance and durability requirements.
Prominent players include U.S. Steel, Zekelman Industries, American Piping Products, Webco Industries, and Nucor Corporation. These companies are investing in new facilities, strategic partnerships, and exclusive distribution deals to strengthen their market presence.
Recent developments include Zekelman's joint venture with Maverick Pipe, BENTELER's USD 21-million threading facility in Louisiana, and Bull Moose Tube's exclusive distribution of jumbo hollow structural sections.