To Extend the Life of Today's High-Performance Equipment: Afton Chemical Launches New Tractor Hydraulic Fluid Additive

RICHMOND, Va.--July 26, 2005--Afton Chemical Corporation has announced the introduction of its newest tractor hydraulic fluid additive. Available exclusively to lubricant blenders, the latest addition to Afton Chemical's additive line is formulated to reduce the cost of maintenance and extend the working life of today's high-performance agricultural and construction equipment.

According to Ian Macpherson, Marketing Manager-Industrial, "We are introducing this new product to cope with the complex design of modern machinery that demands higher performance from the tractor hydraulic oil. For key components of today's tractors, an improved additive is needed because temperatures are getting hotter, loads are becoming higher, and transmissions are becoming more complex."

"Field and rig tests on oils containing the new additive have shown that it effectively addresses these problems with improved wear protection in hydraulic, gear, and transmission applications," said Macpherson. Tests demonstrated more stable friction over time, with a reduction in component wear of over 60%. In addition, the corrosion control offered by this advanced fluid exceeds critical OEM specifications. The new formula also provided superior cleanliness, reducing sludge and varnish deposits on equipment interiors and preventing filter and screen plugging.

Marketed and manufactured by Afton Chemical in its North American and European manufacturing plants, it is the latest in a series of additives formulated to reduce wear in the agricultural and construction markets.

Afton Chemical Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of NewMarket Corporation . Afton Chemical develops and manufactures petroleum additives that enhance the performance of lubricating oils and fuels to enhance their performance in machinery, vehicles, and other equipment. From custom-formulated chemical blends to market-general additive components, Afton Chemical technology helps fuels burn cleaner, engines run smoother, and machines last longer.