Orange County Choppers Rides with Airgas

RADNOR, Pa.--July 19, 2004--Airgas, Inc., today announced that it has entered a two-year agreement with Orange County Chopper, Inc. (OCC) to supply the world-famous customized motorcycle shop in Rock Tavern, NY, with cutting and welding gases, welding consumables, safety products and other industrial and MRO supplies.

Run by father-and-son team Paul Teutul Sr. and Paul Teutul Jr., OCC makes theme and custom-made choppers, such as a patriotic bike in honor of the Statue of Liberty called "The Liberty Bike."

"Fans of the Teutuls and Orange County Choppers include many of our core customers," said Nevin Speicher, vice president - retail operations for Airgas, Inc. "Our relationship with OCC will enable our small- and medium-size customers to see how Airgas equipment and materials can help the Teutuls build their two-wheeled masterpieces."

For a two-year period, Airgas will provide OCC with all of its industrial gases and welding consumables requirements. Also, Airgas Rutland Tool & Supply will outfit OCC with a full service machine shop including lathes, notchers, shears, slip rolls, hand brakes, and more. In addition, Airgas will supply OCC from its complete line of welding supplies and accessories and safety equipment, by leading brands and its own private-label Radnor(R) brand, as well as product specialist consulting expertise.

"Paul Teutul Sr. has been a good friend of mine for years, and we share a common love of motorcycles," said Dave Schaefer, welding process specialist for Airgas East, based in New Windsor, NY. Airgas East is one of 12 regional companies within Airgas that serve customers nationwide. "This relationship between Airgas and OCC makes perfect sense. We are the leading distributor of gases, welding and safety products, and they use these materials to produce the leading customized bikes in the nation."

About Airgas, Inc.

Airgas, Inc. is the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases, welding, safety and related products. Its integrated network of nearly 800 locations includes branches, retail stores, gas fill plants, specialty gas labs, production facilities and distribution centers. Airgas also distributes its products and services through eBusiness, catalog and telesales channels. Its national scale and strong local presence offer a competitive edge to its diversified customer base. For more information, please visit www.airgas.com.