The concrete industry has been active in developing new technologies such as segmented-platform bridges, which can be built in pieces and then assembled into a fully functioning bridge quickly. Despite the increased competition, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, or TEA-21, is a bright spot for steel and other materials in the road, bridge, and infrastructure market. Deputy Secretary Mortimer Downey, emphasizing the continuing need for good infrastructure even in the Information Age. You'll need the roads and bridges to bring it home. Steelmakers must develop new technologies to stay competitive with other materials because companies, especially in the automotive sector, must use the most efficient and economical materials to compete with other car producers.
Automakers already use tube hydroforming technology to make truck chassis.
That technology will grow into other applications. The automotive industry also will increase its use of tailor-welded blanks by 250 percent from 1999 to 2002, Stallkamp said. Meanwhile, steel is trying to invade lumber's dominant territories of house frames and utility poles. Steel has made quick inroads into the utility pole market, doubling its market share from 1997 to 1998, Wilhelm said. The industry also has launched an advertising campaign on numerous cable stations promoting a free video for contractors and interested homebuyers touting the benefits of steel framing.