A division of Illinois Tool Works, ITW MaxiGrip began manufacturing plastic
zippers to be applied to U.S Military tank covers for armament dry storage
in 1985. Today, ITW MaxiGrip poly seals can be found on products serving
critical containment needs for military, government, and emergency use
worldwide. MaxiGrip practicality has been quickly embraced in the commercial
and consumer sector for products ranging from party and waterproof tents,
to ball field tarps to waterproof dry bag storage for watersports. Its
applications continue to evolve and adapt to emerging needs. An indicator
of future applications may best be predicted by MaxiGrip heavy duty zipper
use on protective outfits for actors in the science fiction movies E.T.
and Twelve Monkeys.
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE: ITW) designs and produces an array
of highly engineered fasteners and components, equipment and consumable
systems, and specialty products and equipment for customers around the
world. A leading diversified manufacturing company with nearly 100 years
of history, ITW's 650 decentralized business units in 45 countries employ
approximately 45,000 men and women who are focused on creating value-added
products and innovative customer solutions.
Other ITW divisions of interest to manufacturers of barrier protection
and plastic zippers include: