WESTLAKE, OH -- Nordson's electronics manufacturing and inspection equipment segment reported big gains in the fourth quarter ended Oct. 31. The conglomerate's Advanced Technology Systems unit's sales rose 42.7% to $103.9 million, while the Adhesive Dispensing Systems unit's sales were up 9.3% to $142.6 million.

The Adhesive Dispensing Systems unit had an operating margin of 33%, while Advanced Technology Systems' operating margin was 25%. Both units also reported operating profits. ATS includes Asymtek EFD, Dage and YesTech.

For the quarter, the company reported sales of $290 million, up 22% year-over-year. Operating profit was $73 million and net income reversed a $209 million loss last year, surging to $54 million.

For the year, overall sales was $1.04 billion, up 27% over the previous year. Operating profit was $235 million, net income was $168 million, both full-year records.

Order rates for the 12-week period ending Dec. 5, rose 22% over a year ago, and backlog up 60% to was $128 million.

Nordson guided for first fiscal quarter sales of $260 million to $268 million, up 18 to 22% after currency adjustments.

Ed.: Earlier versions of this story incorrectly reported Asymtek and EFD were part of the Adhesive Dispensing Systems unit.