Sioux Chief Mfg. will purchase REHAU’s North American fittings business for PEX plumbing systems, the companies announced Feb. 26. This will include transition of REHAU’s existing fittings inventory and associated certifications, as well as the licensing of the technology, to Sioux Chief.

Prior to the sale, which takes effect April 1, 2009, Sioux Chief had been a supplier to REHAU for plumbing accessories and fittings. Completion of the sale will thereafter provide Sioux Chief with full manufacturing, distribution and marketing capabilities for the plumbing fittings line throughout North America.

Sioux Chief’s manufacture and supply of REHAU’s former fitting systems line will also promote REHAU’s continued development of cross-linked polyethylene (PEXa) pipe for North American plumbing applications. Production and distribution of the PEXa pipe will be managed out of REHAU’s plant in Cullman, AL, where development is also underway for both current and longer-range innovations in the heating, fire protection and alternative energy industries, REHAU announced.