Ceradyne reported a 1987 loss of $5.5...

Ceradyne reported a 1987 loss of $5.5 million, in contrast with a net gain of $29,000, in 1986. Sales for 1987 rose 34% to $25.6 million from $19.1 million in 1986. For the fourth quarter, the company reported a net loss of $2.9 million, compared to a net loss of $1.1 million for the comparable period last year. Sales for the quarter rose 10% to $6 million from $5.4 million a year ago. The Costa Mesa-based company said the fourth-quarter loss was attributable primarily to lower shipments in the defense-related business, as well as certain non-operating items such as a substantial portfolio loss from the October stock market drop. Ceradyne makes ceramic products and components for defense, aerospace and industrial applications.