Overall, the market for sewage sludge treatment developed satisfactorily during 2004, however with a marked difference between dewatering and drying.  While the centrifuge market showed solid project activity throughout the year, the project situation for thermal sludge treatment systems didn't recover until the Fourth Quarter.

For industrial applications, project activity was very brisk due to the boom in the petrochemical, mining, mineral, and palm oil industries.  Due to the broader product range as a result of the acquisitions of Bird Machine and NETZSCH Filtration, the Business Area was able to secure high bookings in this area.

The municipal dewatering market remained moderate in North America and Western Europe.  Project activity in the municipal market in Eastern Europe, Russia, and other CIS countries gradually picked up during 2004, although below expectations. Certain Asian markets, especially China, showed increased growth.

Project activities for sewage sludge drying plants focused on North America and Western Europe. A new EU directive banning the disposal of sewage sludge to landfills is starting to have a positive influence on the demand for advanced treatment technologies such as thermal drying and incineration.  Major projects are underway in Eastern and Southern European countries.  Also, the North American market for dryers has improved.