It is no secret that PVC prices are at record highs around the world. The article PVC prices at record high – analysis of key factors published in November by Argus Media outlines the primary reasons for this upswing. The supply chain difficulties are a major factor, but so is the increase in energy prices.
In the short term, PVC supply should rise in the three major producing regions. In the US, plants continue to ramp up following Hurricane Ida, which caused the closure of ports in Louisiana (Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Plaquemines, South Louisiana, and St Bernard) and Mississippi (Biloxi, Gulfport, Pascagoula and Bienville). This led to delays in PVC and other commodities entering and exiting the Gulf ports, and polymer container freight rates climbed further. So the anticipated increase in availability combined with declining energy costs have simply not materialized. At the time of this writing. gas prices nationwide are above $5 per gallon while diesel is closer to $6.00 per gallon.
If you are looking for alternatives to burying pipe, you do have options. Irrigation Supply Parts offers hoses that you can lay flat on the ground without the necessity of burying it in the dirt. And at the end of the growing season you can rol it back up and store it for the next season.
AG FEEDER HOSE
Oro-Flex Hose Mainline is a durable, Nitrile rubber covered alternative with increased resistance to oil, fuel, most chemicals and petrochemicals; and stands up to ozone and oxidation.
Vinylflow PVC Layflat Discharge Hose – 45-IS400 – is a smooth tube with low friction loss. This hose is suitable for Drip Irrigation and lays straight with minimal elongation under pressure. This hose may be punched easily without tearing. It is manufactured using ultraviolet inhibitors to reduce aging and weather checking.
Vinylflow Discharge Hose
Hopefully the market conditions affecting the price of PVC will abate before next spring, but in the meantime visit www.Irrigation SupplyParts.com for alternatives
or call us at 517-458-3741 and ask to speak to Phil or Cedric.
