Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for May 2008 showed continued growth in the thermal-processing industry. All four indices remained over 50 for the fourth consecutive month and 14th out of the past 15. The change in backlog increased to 52.8 in May from 51.7 in April. The other three indices, however, experienced slight declines from last month’s figures. May 2008’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their April 2008 business levels to their March 2008 levels.

• Change in number of request for quotes from March to April – 52.0
• Change in number of orders from March to April – 50.8
• Change in backlog from March to April – 52.8
• Expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry through May – 53.4

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 of Industrial Heating.