Heat Treat Today has gathered the four heat treat industry-specific economic indicators for May 2026. The results reinforce a continued growth outlook from the April 2026 predictions, with all four indices remaining above the growth threshold.
May’s data points to anticipated continued growth across the heat treat industry at a more measured pace than the stronger gains forecast in April. Inquiries are projected to remain steady at 63.0 (unchanged from April). Bookings are expected to remain firmly in growth territory at 57.5 (from 62.0 in April). The Backlog index forecasts healthy workloads at 60.7 (from 66.3 in April). Meanwhile, the Health of the Manufacturing Economy index signals continued optimism at 57.1 (from 62.5 in April).
May’s indicators suggest suppliers anticipate a stable operating environment heading into late spring and early summer production cycles. While several indices moderated from April’s stronger projections, all four metrics continue to reflect expected expansion rather than contraction — pointing to sustained activity across aerospace, automotive, energy, and general manufacturing markets.
The results from this month’s survey (May) 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 April to May: 63.0
- Anticipated change in Value of Bookings from April to May: 57.5
- Anticipated change in Size of Backlog from April to May: 60.7
- Anticipated change in Health of the Manufacturing Economy from April to May: 57.1
Data for May 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.
