Industrial Heating's monthly economic indicators for September 2012 showed improvement from August’s numbers. Three of four indices (change in the number of request for quotes, change in the number of orders and expected change in the health of the industry) were over 50, showing growth. The change in backlog, however, was at its lowest level (47.9) since November 2010. September 2012’s numbers:

• Change in number of request for quotes from July to August – 51.0
• Change in number of orders from July to August – 50.1
• Change in backlog from July to August – 47.9
• Expected change in the health of the industry through Sept. – 50.9

September 2012’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their August 2012 business levels to their July 2012 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 2012’s Industrial Heating.