PVC Foam

PVC is made up of polarized molecules (called dipoles). When it is placed between two electrodes, across which a high frequency alternating voltage is passed, molecular oscillations occur, creating internal friction which in turn generates heat.

This method gives uniform heating throughout the weld area. PVC will heat readily in an HF field. In addition to this, PVC is a thermoplastic material and will melt and flow into new shapes, as in an emboss design or seal area.

When a material is welded to form an edge, a method known as tear sealing is adopted. This involves using an electrode with a sharp edge, which sinks under pressure through the material. The surplus material outside the weld line can then be stripped away. Pure PVC foam holds a definite advantage over other materials. Due to its thermoplastic nature it is able to form a clean smooth edge.

We have some basic grades which are extrudued

• VP80
  A low density (80Kg/m3) PVC foam with a skin on both side available in 2 or 3mm white in roll format approx 60m x 1.45m. These foams are ideal for padding in stationery or for sports motifs and emblems.
• SR100
  A 100Kg/m³ PVC foam with a skin on both sides. This is a product which has had its cells crushed and opened up to create a slow recovery grade. Available in Black or White and widths 1m as standard up to 1.4m and thicknesses from 2mm to 20mm
• QR120
  A 120 Kg/m³ foam. This is the basic grade that is used to create SR100. . Available in Black or White and widths 1m as standard up to 1.4m and thicknesses from 2mm to 20mm.

Both SR100 and QR 120 are used with self adhesive backings in Automotive trim, Medical and Building & Construction applications. Many other new applications are also applicable.

Industry Applications

• Automotive: sun visors, door panels, seat covers and seat decoration
• Stationery: binders, wallets, diaries, albums and folders
• Decoration: logos, badges, stickers, emblems and motifs for garments, caps, luggage etc.
• Healthcare: neck collars, commode seats, wheelchairs
• Packaging: jewellery, point of sale items
• Other: shoe insoles, heart monitors, pram padding, head phones, coasters, mouse mats

Some higher density grades are also available in 150Kg/m3 and 200Kg/m³.

PVC Impregnated Polyurethane Foam

This grade was developed initially for coalescing filter media in air compressor lines, to allow a cut pad of foam to be HF welded and create a "sock" to go over a perforated metal strainer. This foam is also finding new application such as ear defenders and seat logo's in automotive applications.