Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for December 2009 were all over 50 (showing growth) for the first time since September 2008. The change in the number of orders and the change in backlog both experienced significant increases from last month’s figures. In fact, both indices reached their highest levels since February 2008. The expected change in the health of the industry remained unchanged from November, while the change in the number of RFQs declined slightly. December’s index numbers:

• Change in number of request for quotes from October to November – 56.3
• Change in number of orders from October to November – 55.7
• Change in backlog from October to November – 55.2
• Expected change in the health of the thermal-processing industry through December – 55.0

December 2009’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their November 2009 business levels to their October 2009 levels. A number below 50.0 indicates decreased activity or a decline in growth. Look for these numbers, along with historical values, in January’s Industrial Heating.