AO Smith Corp. announced unaudited consolidated earnings results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2011. For the quarter, the company reported net sales of $475.8 million against $370.2 million a year ago. Earnings before income taxes were $47.0 million against $28.7 million a year ago. Earnings from continuing operations were $31.5 million or $0.68 per diluted share against $20.5 million or $0.44 per diluted share a year ago. Net earnings attributable to A.O. Smith Corporation were $32.1 million or $0.69 per diluted share against $32.2 million or $0.69 per diluted share a year ago. For the full year, the company reported net sales of $1,710.5 million against $1,489.3 million a year ago. Earnings before income taxes were $161.5 million against $74.4 million a year ago. Earnings from continuing operations were $111.2 million or $2.39 per diluted share against $57.1 million or $1.24 per diluted share a year ago. Net earnings attributable to A.O. Smith Corporation were $305.7 million or $6.57 per diluted share against $111.7 million or $2.42 per diluted share a year ago. Cash provided by operating activities was $55.0 million against $124.8 million a year ago. Capital expenditures were $53.5 million against $53.5 million a year ago. The company estimates 2012 earnings to be in a range of $2.65 and $2.85 per share. This range does not include the potential impact from any future acquisitions or the impact of the RBC share activity. Tax rate between 30% and 31%. Operating cash flow to be significantly higher in 2012 and to range from $145 million to $155 million, primarily because do not expect to make a pension contribution. Capital spending will be between $80 million and $90 million.