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United Foam, a UFP Technologies brand, Creates Tool Control Solution for the United States Army and Marines

ADDISON, IL - August 27, 2008 - United Foam, UFP Technologies brand, has created a foam tool control solution for a combined mobile tool kit contract with Armstrong Tools, a division of Danaher Corporation and Pelican™ Products, Inc. for the United States Army and Marines.

The joint mobile tool kit called the General Mechanics Tool Kit (GMTK) is a portable solution for transporting and storing tools used by members of the US Army and Marines around the globe. The contract is for in excess of 96,000 kits over a five year period worth over $125 million.

United Foam's portion of the GMTK is to provide protection for the tools inside the kit. A multi-color tool control tray made out of closed cell cross-linked polyethylene foam was developed. The tool trays have been engineered and fabricated to custom fit each tool in the kit. A two-color shadow box system was used to emphasis tools missing from the kit to enhance productivity, practice tool accountability, assist with inventory and to prevent foreign object damage (FOD).

United Foam was able to secure their part of the GMTK contract due to their foam fabrication expertise. With decades of experience, multiple locations across the U.S., in-house production capabilities and long-standing relationships with the major foam manufacturers, United Foam was able to meet the multiple requirements of this project.

The most critical step in the fabrication of the foam tool drawer inserts was to secure the correct material. The foam insert had to adhere to the kit's strict requirements to withstand various environmental elements. The drawer inserts called for a sealed surface that did not absorb water or collect moisture. United Foam initially worked with four different foam solutions. Each was tested at an approved laboratory to determine which would meet the kit's requirements. United Foam was able to secure a cross-linked polyethylene foam that exceeded all water resistance requirements. Due to the small cell size of the closed cell foam, there is no room for water to be absorbed into the tool drawer inserts. The selected foam requires no additional coating, laminating or spraying, which reduced overall production costs.

About United Foam

United Foam creates high-performance packaging, part and product solutions from an array of foams, plastics and specialty fabrics. Using the industry's most advanced materials and conversion techniques, we engineer unique, cost-effective solutions for a vast range of critical applications. We have eight fabrication facilities located throughout the US. For more information, visit www.united-foam.com or call 800-372-3172.

About UFP Technologies, Inc.

UFP Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ - UFPT) is an innovative designer and custom converter of foams, plastics and natural fiber products. The company serves its customers through three major brands: United Foam, Simco Automotive, and Molded Fiber; producing a vast array of custom-engineered packaging solutions and component products in eleven manufacturing facilities across North America. Its customers include leading companies in six core markets: Automotive, Computers & Electronics, Medical & Scientific, Aerospace & Defense, Consumer and Industrial. For more information, visit www.ufpt.com or call 800-372-3172.

About Armstrong Tools

Founded in 1890, Armstrong Tools, a division of the Danaher Corporation, is a leading full line manufacturer of premium quality and performance industrial hand tools. Armstrong Military Tools can be reached 1-800-234-0838.

About Pelican Products, Inc.

Pelican™ Products, Inc. is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced lighting systems and virtually indestructible cases with distribution centers in Barcelona, Spain - Edmonton, Canada - Tokyo, Japan - China, and Adelaide, Australia. The company was acquired in 2005 by venture capital firm Behrman Capital.

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Contact UFP

To contact UFP Technologies, please call the number below or complete the following form so that we may route your request to the proper contact.

  • 100 Hale Street Newburyport, MA 01950 USA
  • 800-372-3172
  • info@ufpt.com