MEPS International, an independent supplier of steel market information, has reported that stainless cold rolled coil remained stable and good though out the summer. In September, the sales volumes improved after a relatively slow start. For example, there have been commissioning difficulties at the new Outokumpu rolling mill in Alabama. However, once it is up to speed, the added volumes will add to the competition in the North American market, where Far Eastern steelmakers are already trying to sell some of their excess production.
Similar to the stainless cold rolled coil, stainless steel bar sales volumes are at a satisfactory level. Demand for commodity grades remains poor but more specialist products, such as those often used in aerospace, automotive and energy applications, are selling well.