July U.S. manufacturing technology consumption totaled $303 million, according to the American Machine Tool Distributors’ Association, and the Association For Manufacturing Technology.

This total was down 21.5 percent from June, but up 5.7 percent from the total of $287 million reported for July 2007. With a year-to-date total of $2.6 billion, 2008 is up 15.5 percent compared with 2007.

“Despite the consecutive 1.3 percent increases in durable goods orders for June and July, manufacturing technology orders turned down sharply in July, with much of the downturn in fabricating and forming,” said Peter Borden, AMTDA president. “However, 2008 remains stronger than both 2006 and 2007. The upcoming fall trade show season will provide a clearer indication of the industry’s health following IMTS and Fabtech.”