Secure your Q4 and beyond alloy requirements now!

It has been six months since the U.S. government announced new tariffs affecting countries worldwide. Most nations saw increases and scrambled to negotiate revised trade agreements. Despite these efforts, the cost impact on many minor elements critical to our industry remains largely unchanged.

China, one of the world’s largest economies and a dominant global trading partner, has not relied on tariff negotiations to assert its influence. Instead, it has implemented more stringent export controls on a wide range of products, including minor metals, targeting specific countries.

Initially, these restrictions had minimal impact on supply chains. However, as demand surges in high-tech sectors such as aerospace, industrial gas turbines (IGT), and semiconductors, the effects are becoming increasingly evident.

One notable example is Hafnium (Hf), a key element in the production of superalloys. China's export restrictions have created artificial shortages, despite physical supply being available. As global demand outpaces export capacity, prices are rising sharply. Traders are now quoting prices 35–50% higher than just a few weeks ago.

Fortunately, Ross & Catherall has secured sufficient Hafnium supply to fulfil all current orders and can continue to source material for future requirements. However, recent price increases, driven by simple supply and demand economics, will affect new quotations.

We have locked in material for customers who have committed their alloy requirements through Q4 and into 2026. New enquiries will be priced according to current market conditions. To meet market demands, we've increased our melting capacity.

Remember, your revert material is invaluable, providing the precise composition needed for your next melt. It's cost-efficient, almost like free raw material, recyclable, and sustainable. This "closed loop" melting process helps reduce your company's carbon footprint by decreasing the need for virgin raw materials in each casting.

Please contact your account manager to discuss your future alloy needs and take advantage of our increased melting capacity. If your current supplier cannot meet your requirements Ross & Catherall have introduced increased operational melting and processing in our facility to ensure you delivery your products on-time, in-full to your customers.