Industrial Heating’s monthly economic indicators for April showed growth for the fifth straight month. All four indices were at or above 56.0, the first time that has happened since June 2007. The expected change in the health of the industry was at its highest level (58.4) since April 2005, exactly five years. The change in the number of orders (58.4) was at its highest level since June 2007, and the change in backlog (56.0) was at its highest level since July 2007. The change in the number of request for quotes fell slightly from last month. April’s index numbers:

• Change in number of request for quotes from February to March – 57.1
• Change in number of orders from February to March – 58.4
• Change in backlog from February to March – 56.0
• Expected change in the health of the industry through April – 58.4

April 2010’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their March 2010 business levels to their February 2010 levels. 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, in May’s Industrial Heating.