• Helmet features UA logo and motto, patriotic design

• Features meet demanding needs of pipe welding

APPLETON, Wis., February 13, 2007 - Welding leader Miller Electric Mfg. Co. has introduced a new auto-darkening welding helmet specifically designed to honor the United Association (UA) of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry. The Miller UA helmet, based on Miller’s Big Window Elite technology, features the UA logo and motto, images of workers welding and a patriotic red, white and blue design. With a membership approaching 350,000, the UA is the largest and most welding-intensive of the skilled trade unions.

“We believe that this is the first ever welding helmet specifically designed and produced for any trade group,” said Miller business development manager Neal Borchert. “The top-of-the-line Miller UA helmet is the best of the best, designed for the best. We would also like to extend a special thanks to UA L.U. 598 for its assistance with the helmet design.”

Borchert presented special edition, personalized helmets to UA General President William P. Hite and UA Director of Training Mike Arndt during the 94th meeting of the Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association in Milwaukee.

“Our members will be proud to wear this beautiful helmet,” said Hite at the presentation ceremony. “With the images of workers welding and its stars and stripes design, the Miller UA helmet celebrates the American heritage and the American welder. Use of our motto, ‘We do it right the first time,’ showcases the UA’s commitment to providing the most dedicated and skilled workforce in the world.”

Arndt noted that, “This helmet symbolizes the continuing partnership between Miller and the United Association.”

Sue Stark, Miller general manager and vice president, Service Parts, said, “The Miller UA helmet incorporates features that specifically meet the needs of pipe welders, such as four independent arc sensors to provide continuous arc-sensing capability, even when welding out-of-position.”

Miller Auto-Darkening Helmets are covered by a 2-year warranty. For more information or to download a product spec sheet, visit Miller's Web site at www.MillerWelds.com, call 1-800-4-A-MILLER  (800-426-4553), e-mail info@millerwelds.com, fax 877-327-8132, or write to Miller Electric Mfg. Co., P.O. Box 100, Lithonia, GA 30058.

With headquarters in Appleton, Wis., Miller Electric Mfg. Co. is a leading worldwide manufacturer of arc welding equipment and related systems for metalworking, construction, maintenance and other applications. Miller Electric is a wholly owned subsidiary of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW), Glenview, Ill. ITW is a diversified multinational manufacturer of highly engineered components, assemblies and systems.

The Miller UA helmet, based on Miller’s Big Window Elite technology, features the UA logo and motto, images of workers welding and a patriotic red, white and blue design.