Final Thoughts

February 26, 2014

I have to admit I am very impressed with the quality of the speakers and the program that has been put on by the FMA Toll Processors Conference. One of the reasons why I am attending this particular conference was due to the agenda which included a couple of programs about Advanced High Strength Steels (AHSS). I hope that I have discovered a couple of excellent speakers for our upcoming Steel Summit Conference.

Speaking of our Steel Summit Conference we need your help. Please take a moment to give us your input. To access the survey click on the following link. Your participation will help us make a number of important (and expensive) decisions regarding the length of the program, dates and speakers.

A question from one of the automotive companies who participated in the FMA Toll Processors Conference. During an interactive discussion between the audience and two of the economists/analysts, the automotive representative questioned whether the processors would be able to handle the new materials – especially those being made by Ford and their move to the aluminum F-150.

I had a conversation with a stamper who is a supplier to Ford. When I brought up the subject of the aluminum F-150 I asked if their company was ready to handle aluminum material. He told me his job was to bring in more steel business… Ford is shutting down the F-150 production line later this summer as the retool from steel to aluminum for the 2015 F-150.

Being an old guy in the steel industry my suggestion to those new people out there who want to figure out what the “niches” will be in the coming years. One will be what to do with all of this AHSS, Dual Phase, TRIP and other exotic steels. Many of which have to be carefully processed. What you will need to do first is learn how all of these products (most zinc coated) are made, understand that cold rolled is made differently than galvanized (because of the heat in the zinc pot) and how they can be formed. The secondary market will need to learn what grades and terminologies go with what auto company as the specifications for the same steel can be different.

This is something where SMU may need to develop a special Advanced High Strength Steel workshop to help get the word out. I am thinking about it. If such a class would be of interest to you please shoot me an email: info@SteelMarketUpdate.com

Speaking of workshops – our next Steel 101 workshop will be held in Dearborn, Michigan on May 6 & 7th. Please go to our website to learn more. You are also welcome to contact me in my office with any questions you might have: 800-432-3475.

As always your business is truly appreciated by all of us here at Steel Market Update.

John Packard, Publisher

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