Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for July 2008 showed an overall decline from June’s figures, but the outlook for the rest of the month is positive. The change in the number of orders from May to June fell under 50 for only the second time in the past two years. The expected change in the health of the industry through July, however, was at 53.3 – up from last month. Change in the number of request for quotes and change in backlog both continued to show growth even though the numbers declined slightly from June. July 2008’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their June 2008 business levels to their May 2008 levels.

• Change in number of request for quotes from May to June – 51.4
• Change in number of orders from May to June – 48.9
• Change in backlog from May to June – 51.6
• Expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry through July – 53.3

A number above 50.0 indicates increased activity or growth. A number below 50.0 indicates decreased activity or a decline in growth. Look for these numbers, along with historical values, on the Business Trends page of August’s Industrial Heating.