different types of medical foams

A range of different Medical Foams with special technical properties. We design, supply, convert and manufacture a range of foams for use in specialised medical applications.

Intec Foams specialise in the supply and conversion of bespoke foams for the medical industries. We have extensive experience of designing and converting medical grade foams for specific applications. Out services include research, design and supply of new foams and/or applications. We have some closed cell grades that are medical FDA approved and also have EU approvals (although most Foamer’s have not put their foams forward for approval). Whilst the majority of our Foams are reasonably inert, we would recommend that approval is sought independently for your specific application.

Foam properties and applications

  • Low Odour
  • Packaging grades
  • Flexible
  • Thermal, Ethylene Oxide and Gamma Irradiation sterilizable foams
  • Soft or firm where necessary
  • lightweight and durable
  • closed cell and water repellent,
  • open cell for fluid and noise absorption
  • excellent chemical resistance

Flexible Foam plays a crucial role in

  • Surgery Masks
  • Suture Pads
  • Sharps pads
  • Cervical Collars
  • Fluid Regulators
  • Acoustic Absorbers and Dampers
  • Wheelchair Cushions & Bed Cushions
  • Prosthetic Devices
  • Slings & ankle supports
  • Hospital Disposables (foam swabs & wipes)
  • Orthotics
  • Seals & Gaskets (bottle tops)
  • Shoe Insoles
  • Podiatric applications
  • Orthopaedics
  • Wrist Rests
  • Head Restraints
  • Tablet Bottle Inserts

When it comes to medical applications, versatility makes foam unique as a design material.

Thanks to our innovative foam fabrication, polymer chemistry and conversion techniques , medical grade foams can take on a wide range of different properties. This offers designers a full palette of potential materials including shape retention, water resistance or absorbency, porosity, density, and other physical characteristics.

Intec Foams expertise in the medical sector  lies in the product design and engineering of specific shapes in the chosen grade of foam. Using “state of the art” cutting technology, a wide variety of intricate shapes can be produced, Prototypes can be created subject to appropriate tooling where necessary. To solve even more application problems, you can heat it, compress it, and laminate it to change its characteristics.

Our aim is to help you design and develop specific medical products using our skills and knowledge

Should you have a specific requirement or enquiry for these products or any other potential application, please give us a call for a friendly impartial discussion, or simply complete our online web form or email us at: [email protected] and we will respond immediately.

Hydrophilic Foam

A special medical grade of cellulose sponge is available for absorbing fluids in medical applications, and by thermally compressing some PU foams, we can develop products that have a good degree of hydrophilic behaviour. The foams are not suitable for use in open wounds or inside the body. If you would like more information, please complete our online web form and we will respond as quickly as possible.

Polyethylene foam

Our medical grade PE foams are closed cell with FDA approvals, and can be used where they are likely to come into contact with food and medical implants. Being closed cell they have a wipe clean surface, Some have an outer skin for improved clean-ability. Antimicrobial versions are available. Medical Adhesives can be applied to create a single or double sided tape or pads.

Reticulated foam

Completely open cell foams with a controlled cell structure and porosity. Available in a range of pore sizes for filtration applications such as blood filters, swabs and wipes, or a special grade for HME filters for anaesthesia and tracheostomy.

Visco Elastic foam

These foams are used for absorbing energy or for conforming to the body’s shape through the presence of body heat.

Processing

  • lamination to special films and adhesives for use
  • We operate a machine cleandown protocol to reduce cross contamination effects during the cutting process.
  • We can offer a Laundering Service to remove Bio-burden and debris created during the conversion process.