NORTH BILLERICA, MA -- The recovery continues at BTU International, which last night said third-quarter net sales rose 20% to $18.5 million, while earnings jumped to $1.6 million from a loss of $2.4 million last year.

For the quarter ended Oct. 2, net sales were up 17% and net income doubled sequentially.

Year-to-date, net sales are up 15% to $47.1 million, and net income is $2.5 million, up from a loss of $4.3 million, including a one-time restructuring charge of $1.6 million.

"Both the PCbBoard assembly and energy generation markets were stronger than expected top line contributors to our third quarter," said Paul J. van der Wansem, chairman and chief executive officer. "Overall, our improved performance is based on implementing our strategy to focus on the key sectors of our markets coupled with increased operating efficiencies."

"We will continue to expand our global organization and capabilities," said van der Wansem, adding
that electronics manufacturing shows continuing strength. "Revenues for the fourth quarter are expected to be similar to the robust performance in the third quarter."