Heat Treat Today has gathered the four heat treat industry-specific economic indicators for January 2026. The January results show encouraging momentum compared to the December 2025 predictions.
January’s indices show suppliers to the industry anticipate significant growth across all four key metrics. Inquiries had a robust uptick at 56.9 (up from 51.3 in December). Bookings demonstrated a healthy increase at 59.5 (up from 56.3 in December). The Backlog index rebounded dramatically, swinging the metric from contraction back into solid growth territory at 57.8 (up from 46.3 in December). Finally, the Health of the Manufacturing Economy index continues to reflect expectations for an encouraging backdrop for heat treating demand at 56.1 (up from 53.8 in December).
January’s indicators reveal a heat treating industry hitting its stride as we enter 2026. The across-the-board improvements — particularly the dramatic backlog recovery — paint a picture of renewed vitality and momentum. With all four metrics showing solid growth, the industry appears well-positioned for a strong start to the year.
The results from this month’s survey (January) are as follows: numbers above 50 indicate growth, numbers below 50 indicate contraction, and the number 50 indicates no change:
- Anticipated change in Number of Inquiries from December to January: 56.9
- Anticipated change in Value of Bookings from December to January: 59.5
- Anticipated change in Size of Backlog from December to January: 57.8
- Anticipated change in Health of the Manufacturing Economy from December to January: 56.1
Data for January 2026
The four index numbers are reported monthly by Heat Treat Today and made available on the website.
Heat Treat Today’s Economic Indicators measure and report on four heat treat industry indices. Each month, approximately 800 individuals who classify themselves as suppliers to the North American heat treat industry receive the survey. Above are the results. Data collection began in June 2023. If you would like to participate in the monthly survey, please click here to subscribe.
