Industrial Heating's monthly economic indicators for August 2011 showed growth for the ninth time in the past 10 months. More importantly, all four indices increased from August. The change in the number of orders and the change in backlog were both at their highest levels since January 2011. Also of note, the change in the number of RFQs and the change in backlog have both been over 50 for 12 consecutive months. September’s numbers:

• Change in number of request for quotes from July to August – 51.3
• Change in number of orders from July to August – 55.5
• Change in backlog from July to August – 54.3
• Expected change in the health of the industry through Sept. – 51.8

September 2011’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their August 2011 business levels to their July 2011 levels. 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, in October’s Industrial Heating.