S2 Glass® Plays Crucial Role in Essex Pole Vault

Introduction

UST Mamiya, a leader in sporting equipment using composite materials, entered the pole vault equipment market based on their experience in engineering of high-performance golf shafts. Through their development efforts, the ESSX RECOIL brand was conceived. ESSX vaulting poles have become synonymous with top-tier performance and innovation in the sport, aiding numerous athletes in achieving remarkable success on the global stage.

Research and development

UST Mamiya’s approach to innovation involves leveraging the mechanical properties of materials to meet the unique equipment requirements of pole vaulting. While the decision to use AGY’s proprietary S2 Glass was based on its mechanical properties, UST Mamiya also uses an intricate combination of multiple fibers to optimize performance. This blend includes S2 Glass and carbon fibers, each contributing unique attributes to the overall design.

The innovation: S2 Glass in vaulting poles

UST Mamiya’s began manufacturing poles in 2011 as a contract manufacturer. At that time, AGY’s S2 Glass was already being used in vaulting poles because of its exceptional properties, particularly its strength and elongation capabilities. AGY and UST Mamiya collaborated to change the format of the S2 Glass to optimize the fiber for this distinctive application.

Previous materials vs. AGY S2 Glass

Before adopting S2 Glass, other materials were used in the engineering of vaulting poles. However, these compositions did not provide an optimal balance of strength and flexibility. The introduction of AGY’s S2 Glass marked a significant improvement to the poles, elevating athletic performance to new heights. S2 Glass offers both increased strength, which is essential for the high-impact stresses experienced during vaulting, and superior elongation, which provides improved flexibility, allowing the pole to bend and store energy efficiently.