Industrial Heating’smonthly economic indicators for February 2008 showed growth in the thermal-processing industry and a considerable increase over last month’s numbers. All four indices were over 53, and the change in the number of request for quotes was at its highest since February 2006 (60.2). The change in backlog also reached a six-month high (55.9). February 2008’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their January 2008 business levels to their December 2007 levels.
  • Change in number of request for quotes from December to January – 60.2
  • Change in number of orders from December to January – 56.9
  • Change in backlog from December to January – 55.9
  • Expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry through Feb. – 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 ofIndustrial Heating.