FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Dick Hildebrand
Yale Cordage, Inc.
207-282-3396

YALE ULTREX OUTPERFORMS STEEL CABLE - AND SETS A NEW STANDARD FOR SINGLE BRAID ROPE.

Yale pioneers the use of Dyneema SK75 fiber to create the world's strongest, most versatile single braid rope.

Biddeford, Maine, October 15, 2001 - In an announcement today, Yale Cordage unveiled Ultrex single braid, continuing the company's tradition of incorporating high technology fibers into high performance rope. Ultrex, crafted of Dyneema SK75 fiber, combines light weight, high strength, low stretch and buoyancy, and is designed for marine applications traditionally reserved for steel cable or large hawsers.

"We've recognized the need for a lightweight alternative to steel cable for some time," said Yale Vice President Dick Hildebrand. "When we tested Dyneema SK75, we saw its potential and went to work. When we developed Ultrex, we were thrilled with its strength and stretch characteristics. And based on the feedback we've received during trials, its buoyancy makes it that much more appealing for marine applications."

Ultrex isn't Yale's first foray into the use of advanced fibers, according to Hildebrand. "At Yale, we've been converting fibers into high performance ropes for over a decade. We were the first to use Kevlar in rope, and have gone on to use Allied Signal's Spectra and PBO to develop ropes. The combinations have always produced significant advances in rope technology. Our customers have come to rely on that kind of innovation."

In addition to its high technology pedigree, Ultrex also incorporates Yale's Maxijacket coating. "No matter how strong the fibers we use to manufacture a rope, abrasion is always a major concern. Heavy marine environments are notoriously tough on equipment. With its Maxijacket coating, Ultrex is designed to withstand even the most difficult conditions without fraying or breaking. Maxijacket essentially lets the Dyneema SK75 do its job - and keeps outside forces from compromising Ultrex's performance," said Hildebrand.

Developed for a wide variety of heavy marine applications, Ultrex is available in diameters ranging from 3/8" to 2", with average breaking strengths ranging from 20,000 to 390,000 pounds.

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