Polyethylene Foam – Foam Fabrication
Polyurethane Foam
Polyurethane foam is a blanket term that includes any foam that is synthesized using polyol and diisocyanate. These include but are not limited to: memory foam, high resilience foam, and high density foam. Since polyurethane foam can contain additives, a manufacturer that comes up with a new formula can name the new foam whatever they like. Many memory foam mattresses are a combination of polyurethane foams, layered from dense on the bottom to less dense on the surface layers.
Polyurethane is a synthetic blend of organic compounds and has a tendency to off-gas. If you are susceptible to lung issues, please do additional research on the quality of foams before purchasing.
Polyethylene foam is a durable, lightweight, resilient, closed-cell material. It is often used for packaging fragile goods due to its excellent vibration dampening and insulation properties. It also offers high resistance to chemicals and moisture. It is easy to process and fabricate. It has high load bearing characteristics that help manufacturers reduce packaging costs as they can use thinner and smaller amounts of foam yet still protect their products.
UFP Technologies can recommend the proper polyethylene foam material for your unique packaging, component, or product. Our engineering team will work with you to design your solution and manufacture the final parts. Polyethylene Foam Material Characteristics:
- Closed-Cell
- Very lightweight
- Non-abrasive
- Easy to fabricate
- Non-Dusting
- Superb strength and tear resistance
- Excellent shock absorption & vibration dampening properties
- Flexibility
- Impervious to mildew, mold, rot, and bacteria
- Resistant to water, chemicals, solvents & grease
- CFC free
- Odorless
- Excellent buoyancy
- Very cost-effective
- Excellent thermal insulation properties
Pros: Many different types of foams exist under the polyurethane umbrella — some are excellent for bedding and offer different firmness varieties!
Cons: Off-gassing and durability problems with lower quality foams.
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