Praxair to Increase U.S. Prices, Texas Plant Earns ISO 9002 Certification

DANBURY, Conn., Jan. 25 -- Praxair, Inc. announced it has raised prices an average of 5 percent to 12 percent for customers of oxygen, nitrogen, argon, helium, carbon dioxide and hydrogen in bulk liquid form. In addition, the company will eliminate price discounts to customers in the U.S. as contracts permit. The increase reflects growing customer demand, maximum sustainable operating rates at most production facilities and higher labor and fuel expenses associated with Praxair's distribution costs. The amount of the increase will vary depending on the type of product, regional supply situation and specific contract terms.In other company news, Praxair's San Antonio, Texas, plant has received ISO 9002 certification. The plant produces gas delivery systems for use with semiconductor process gases including gas cabinets, valve manifold boxes, gas isolation boxes, and bulk specialty gas source control systems.ISO 9002 registration certifies that Praxair's manufacturing operation has a comprehensive process-based system in place to provide high quality gas delivery systems to semiconductor manufacturers.Praxair is the largest industrial gases company in North and South America, and one of the largest worldwide, with 1999 sales of $4.6 billion. The company produces, sells and distributes atmospheric and process gases, and high-performance surface coatings. Praxair products, services and technology bring productivity and environmental benefits to a wide variety of industries, including water treatment, aerospace, food and beverage, healthcare, electronics, chemicals and refining.SOURCE: Praxair, Inc.