U.S. machine-tool sales highest in four years

According to the American Machine Tool Distributors' Association (AMTDA) and the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT), U.S. machine tool sales in 2004 are the highest in four years, and sales are expected to increase in 2005. Machine tool sales can reflect the pace of manufacturing.

November sales were $275.20 million, 18.3 percent higher than October's $232.72 million and 40.4 percent higher than November 2003's $195.98 million.

Machine tools are used to shape metal for products such as car engines and appliances. The demand for these tools can indicate the manufacturing rate.