A PMI over 50 signals expansion in the manufacturing sector. 

Among the PMI sub-indices, the new orders index "fell slightly" from the previous month but remained over 50.

The production volume index "rose moderately" and stayed over the 50-point mark.

The employment index showed a contraction, after three consecutive months of expansion.

Delivery times were longer than in July.

The gauge of purchased inventories climbed for the fourth month in a row.