Industrial Heating’smonthly economic indicators for April 2008 showed growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices improved from March’s numbers. They also remained over 50 for the third straight month and 13th out of the past 14. The change in the number of orders experienced the largest jump from March, improving to 54 from 50.3. April 2008’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their March 2008 business levels to their February 2008 levels.
  • Change in number of request for quotes from February to March – 55.8
  • Change in number of orders from February to March – 54.0
  • Change in backlog from February to March – 51.7
  • Expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry through April – 54.3
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.