Forging producers see good times continuing

After 1987 sales rebound, the forging industry of North America has continued to post higher shipments and bookings in 1988. According to the Forging Industry Association, year-to-date shipments of open-die forgings were up 22% over 1987, while impression-die forgings gained 4%. Bookings were up 33% and 11%, respectively. 1987 shipments of ferrous impression-die forgings were up 9% in dollar value and 21% by weight. Aluminum forgings increased 17% in dollar value and 16% by weight. Titanium forgings decreased in those categories by 8% and 1% respectively. Aerospace was the leading market segment for impression-die forgings, with 39.5% of total sales, and is expected to hold that position in 1988. Other major markets are: automotive/transportation, 28.2%; off-highway equipment, 6.7%; ordnance (except missiles), 5.6%; and plumbing,3.3%.