Category Archives: String Review
NG Strings
Several months ago we tested some small samples of NG natural gut string. The results were not exciting so the data was not published.
Recently we tested some new versions of NG Strings, the PROV5+, and have some results to post.
First, the packaging is top notch.
Second, the two (2) 12m lengths per set is perfect, in our opinion, since all racquets should be strung using two (2) pieces of string, no one piece or ATW. There may be a manufacturing component to the 2 piece decision, also.
The “squiggles” we see in the two (2) NG Strings may be the tiny changes in the bonding agent(s) that occurs under load. We have seen this in some early Luxilon gut. We refer to it as a “break-in period”. Pre-stretching the entire piece length will reduce the break-in period.
Third, the gauge is much more consistent than previous samples.
This initial post will include stress/strain and ultimate tensile strength plots compared to Babolat VS Touch 17, our most used natural gut.
The first plot is UTS:
Natural Gut UTS
This visual tells the story but if you want the numbers they are at the failure end of each string. The stress/strain cycle shows the relative “softness” of each string. The higher the deflection the softer the string, so NG16 is the stiffest of the three and NG 17 is the softest.
We will be adding Knot Strength so check back soon the see how each string reacts to knots!
We will do several other tests before the string goes into a racquet for player feedback.
In summary this version shows tremendous improvement over the first version we tested… give it a try.
So, what’s the big difference?
For nearly twenty years (20) years, we have been using PEEK for high performance tennis strings. Ashaway has been using PEEK longer than we have under MonoGut ZX and ZX Pro (thinner) models.
“The significant property differences between 1.25mm polyester and 1.25mm polyetheretherketone (PEEK) are based on their chemical composition, mechanical strength, thermal resistance, and durability. Here’s a comparison:
- Chemical Composition
- Polyester: A polymer made of ester functional groups commonly used in textiles, films, and some industrial applications.
- Polyetheretherketone (PEEK): A high-performance engineering thermoplastic with ether and ketone groups, known for its superior mechanical and thermal properties.
- Mechanical Properties
| Property | 1.25mm Polyester | 1.25mm PEEK |
| Tensile Strength | Lower (~50-100 MPa) | Much higher (~90-120 MPa) |
| Elastic Modulus | ~2-4 GPa | ~3.6-4.0 GPa |
| Toughness | Flexible, lower toughness | High toughness, impact-resistant |
| Abrasion Resistance | Moderate | Very high |
- Thermal Properties
| Property | 1.25mm Polyester | 1.25mm PEEK |
| Melting Point | ~250°C | ~343°C |
| Glass Transition | ~70°C | ~143°C |
| Thermal Stability | Moderate | Excellent |
PEEK can withstand much higher temperatures than polyester, making it ideal for high-heat applications.
- Chemical Resistance
- Polyester: Moderate resistance to chemicals but degrades in strong acids and alkalis.
- PEEK: Excellent chemical resistance, even to strong acids, bases, and solvents.
- Electrical Properties
- Polyester: Good dielectric properties but lower breakdown strength.
- PEEK: Exceptional electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for high-performance applications.
- Water Absorption & Durability
- Polyester: Absorbs some moisture, reducing strength over time.
- PEEK: Extremely low water absorption, maintaining strength and dimensional stability.
- Applications
- Polyester: Used in textiles, packaging, and some low-load industrial applications.
- PEEK: Used in aerospace, medical implants, and high-performance engineering applications.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for high strength, thermal resistance, and durability, PEEK is far superior to polyester. However, polyester is more cost-effective and widely used in consumer applications. The choice depends on the required application and performance needs.”
A Hybrid View…Part 2
Here now! Performance T-shirts with a message!
Our new 100% performance fabric t-shirts are already at the World Headquarters and are now available on the website!
Simply click on the “shopping” tab or right here to go to the place to buy your t-shirt and support the “Play Harder not Hurter” mission.
How exciting is that!
Here is a brief preview of the t-shirt message, our guiding principle!
No Underage Polyester, Please
White T-shirt
Bright Pink T-shirt
Purple T-shirt
Each shirt color is available in small/petite (S/P), medium (M), large (L), and Extra Large (XL).
Each shirt is $25.00 If you pick up your shirt at the World Headquarters.
Each shirt is $29.00 If shipped in the United States.
If you have a special garment you would like our message on, please let us know. We can do it in the World Headquarters.
Racquet Quest, LLC
