Industrial Heating’smonthly economic indicators for September 2007 showed continued growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices were over 54.0, and three indices increased from last month. In addition, all four indices were above 52.0 for the eighth consecutive month. The expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry was at 56.8 for the second straight month, which is the highest it has been since April 2006. September 2007’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their August 2007 business levels to their July 2007 levels.
  • Change in number of request for quotes from July to August – 54.9
  • Change in number of orders from July to August – 56.1
  • Change in backlog from July to August – 54.2
  • Expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry through Sept. – 56.8
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 in the October 2007 issue ofIndustrial Heating.