IC 8123 Aluminum Fabrication In The Pacific Northwest: An Economic Survey ? Summary

Of the about 60 million pounds of aluminum used in the Pacific Northwest in 1960, 40 million pounds or two-thirds was used by 10 companies. One of these companies made airplanes and missiles; one manufactured roofing, siding, and tubing; three produced truck tractors, truck bodies, or truck trailers; two made architectural metal products; one made irrigation and industrial products; one was a general foundry; and one was a shipyard. These companies contributed to regional growth by developing markets outside the area; some have worldwide sales. Aluminum consumption increased at an average rate of 7 percent annually from 1954 to 1960. Airplane manufacture, formerly preeminent in aluminum use, no longer was in first place in 1960. By industrial group, the leading users were manufacturers of building products, 30 percent; airplanes and missiles, 22 percent; truck tractors, truck bodies, and truck trailers; 17 percent; general foundries, 5 percent; ships and boats, 4 percent; mobile homes, 4 percent; other transportation equipment, 3 percent; and irrigation equipment and all other products, 15 percent.