Alcoa CSI Introduces 'XT' Closures Designed to Withstand Extreme Temperature Shifts.

Business Editors

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 26, 2003

Alcoa (NYSE:AA) announced today that its Alcoa Closure Systems International business, one of the world's leading closure systems suppliers to the beverage industry, has introduced two new closures specifically designed to improve the seal integrity of carbonated beverage packaging under extreme temperature "cycling" conditions - the 28mm Double-Lok XT (TM) and 28mm Extra-Lok XT (TM) closures.

Extreme conditions call for extreme packaging solutions. Alcoa CSI research shows that filled PET soft drink bottles can be subjected to "temperature cycling" in the filling / distribution channel - from 40 degrees (F) in refrigerated vending to over 135 degrees (F) in shipping and storage. These wide-ranging temperature conditions can cause shrinkage of the heat-sensitive PET material, which can cause gaps to develop between the finish and the closure. The result: loss of CO2 and product freshness.

Alcoa CSI's Double-Lok XT and Extra-Lok XT closures are specifically designed for PET beverage bottles to maximize CO2 sealing performance and beverage product freshness under the most demanding conditions. The XT liner design incorporates an inner and outer seal, providing maximum protection against gaps. Under extreme temperature conditions, this dual seal assures that the product remains fresh until the end consumer opens the bottle.

Bottlers and consumers can expect additional performance benefits from the XT closure including patented tamper evidence features and improved removal torque for better package opening performance for consumers. Application set up is easy with only a capper headset torque adjustment required to apply XT closures. XT closures are also compatible with popular under-the-cap promotions, and are video-jet or laser compatible.

Alcoa CSI delivers total closure systems solutions. Customers have unique access to a network of world-class expertise in systems engineering and technical services resources offering in-plant service, application support, training and plant efficiency improvement programs. To download a PDF format brochure describing the XT liner, visit the Alcoa CSI website at: http://www.alcoacsi.com/

Alcoa Closure Systems International, Inc. (CSI) is recognized as a world leader in closure systems and packaging, and provider of quality products and service support to the beverage industry. CSI's major markets include carbonated soft drink, juice, isotonic, bottled water, beer, dairy, food, liquor, pharmaceutical, and motor oil. In its 27 operating locations and offices worldwide, CSI employs nearly 3,000 persons. The company is guided by principles of strict customer satisfaction, total quality manufacturing and technical service, all tied to specific customer needs.

In addition to closures and capping equipment, Alcoa, Inc. offers a complete selection of packaging products to manufacturers and consumers including aluminum rigid container sheet for the packaging and consumer products market, formed plastic containers, converter foil and formed container stock; printed, coated and laminated films; paper and foil combinations, shrink films and over wrap; custom-formed sterile plastic containers for medical supplies, tools and electronics.

Alcoa Inc. is the world's leading producer of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina, and is active in all major aspects of the industry. Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities of Alcoa's businesses to customers. In addition to aluminum products and components, Alcoa also markets consumer brands including Reynolds Wrap(R) foils and plastic wraps, Alcoa(R) wheels, and Baco(R) household wraps. Among its other businesses are vinyl siding, closures, precision castings, and electrical distribution systems for cars and trucks. The company has 127,000 employees in 40 countries. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com