Ashaway Develops Poly-Based Resin Multifilament for Racquetball
March 28, 2018
Ashaway, RI (March 28, 2018) – Ashaway has introduced another technical innovation to its line of racquetball strings: a polyurethane (PU) based, multifilament nylon string designed to add toughness and durability for players who like to really cut and spin the ball. Ashaway’s first string using this technology, new MultiKill® 17, combines a high tenacity multifilament nylon sheath with a specially formulated polyurethane resin that bonds the string into a single matrix and adds durability while providing superior feel. The smooth PU surface of MultiKill 17 enhances grip, while the 17-gauge construction maximizes power.
“Like Zyex®, polyurethane resin is a relatively new kid on the block for racquetball strings,” said Ashaway’s Steve Crandall. “It can be formulated to offer many different properties, and when combined with other materials, like high tenacity nylon multifilament fibers, can provide strings with exceptional playing characteristics. MultiKill 17 is our first offering using this innovative material technology, and we are excited to be able to compete in this market segment.”
The key difference with this new technology, Crandall explained, is the matrix design. With other multifilament nylon strings, like Ashaway’s popular SuperKill® XL line, the core and sleeve or wear layer elements remain separate, and retain some ability to move relative to one another. The PU resin in the new MultiKill string binds the multifilament sheath and surface into a single, unitized matrix. This gives the string added strength, especially on off-center hits near the edge of the frame, while the natural adhesive properties of the polyurethane surface adds grip. At the same time the string retains its soft feel and comfortable playability.
Ashaway’s MultiKill 17 strings are black in color and 1.25 mm thick. They come in 40 ft. individual packages or 360 ft. reels. Recommended string tension is up to 40 lbs.
Ashaway Racket Strings are made by Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co., the only U.S. manufacturer of string for squash, tennis, racquetball, and badminton. Operated by the Crandall family since 1824, Ashaway has been making racquet strings since 1949, and is responsible for several important technical innovations. Ashaway has been the Official String of USA Racquetball for more than fifteen years. Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co. also makes braided products for medical and industrial applications. For more information visit www.ashawayusa.com. Zyex is a registered trademark of Zyex Ltd.