SIC 3432 Plumbing Fixtures and Fittings

Encyclopedia of American Industries | 2005 | Copyright

SIC 3432
PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FITTINGS

Companies that produce metal plumbing fixtures and parts make up the plumbing fixture and fittings industry. This classification also encompasses establishments engaged in the assembly of plastic components into fixtures and fittings. Companies that manufacture plastic, ceramic, earthenware, and other types of plumbing fixtures are classified in separate industries, as are firms that make steam or water line valves.

NAICS Code(s)

332913 (Plumbing Fixture Fitting and Trim Manufacturing)

332999 (All Other Miscellaneous Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing)

Industry Snapshot

Although advanced plumbing systems have existed since 2000 B.C., metal pipes and fittings were not commonplace in the United States until the early 1900s, when they began playing an important role in the development of industrialized society. By 2000, the plumbing fixtures and fittings (PFF) industry had shipments valued at $3.7 billion, and the industry had nearly 15,000 employees. The PFF industry is largely dependent on the new housing market. Other important market sectors are commercial and institutional construction, and replacement and renovation.

The fixture industry had experienced steady expansion since the 1970s, despite economic recessions. Through the mid-1990s the industry enjoyed an average annual growth rate of between 5 and 5.5 percent. This rate of growth, however, began to slow in the late 1990s, as total industry shipments fell from $3.85 billion in 1998 to $3.70 billion in 2000. Over the same time period, employment declined from 15,651 workers to 14,750 workers. To maintain profitability and growth, industry players introduced new products, increased productivity, and took advantage of propitious demographic trends.

Organization and Structure

Plumbing refers to the system of pipes, fixtures, and other apparatus in a structure that supplies water and removes liquid and waterborne wastes. The foremost role of an integrated plumbing system is to safely deliver and remove water; therefore, fixtures and fittings must conform to strict codes, regulations, and trade standards. Manufacturers of fixtures are also concerned with producing styles that appeal to consumers by reflecting current trends in home decoration.

Most plumbing fixtures and fittings are built for residential use. Primary residential applications include kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms and gardens. Fixtures also complement various commercial, industrial, and institutional plumbing systems. Most fixtures and fittings may be divided into one of four groups: traps, tubes, and drains; pipe fittings; faucets and toilets; and shower fixtures. Manufacturing metals used by the industry include copper, brass, bronze, and iron.

In 1997 the largest single product share of the PFF market was for miscellaneous plumbing fixtures and fittings and trims (brass goods) valued at more than $1.5 billion. The second largest product share was for single lever plumbing fixture controls, two or three handle bath or shower fittings, and anti-scald bath or shower valves valued at nearly $1.3 billion. The last was for nearly $800 million worth of lavatory and sink fittings (except single control) including drains and overflows.

Basin drains usually incorporate traps or tubes. Traps are essentially drainage pipes with a bend, or trap, beneath the drain for holding water and preventing odors and gases from backing up out...

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