What Is PVC Foam And How Is It Used?
PVC Foam Sheets are a versatile, lightweight material with many possible applications. It can be used in machinery as a cushioning and anti-vibration material, or it can be used in soundproofing as it absorbs and deadens sound vibrations. Gaskets also can be manufactured from PVC foam, as it is resistant to solvents, moisture and fatigue. At Kirkfield we manufacture and supply Closed-Cell PVC Foam Sheets in rolls, gaskets and strips. On this page, we answer as many questions as we can about this product.
What is PVC Foam?
PVC stands for Poly Vinyl Chloride and is a widely-used polymer plastic. PVC Foam, also known as vinyl foam, is a mixture of PVC and Polyurea through a crosslinked polymer network, creating a good bond strength for a strong fabric. This foam is almost half the weight of solid PVC, as well as flexible, mouldable and durable. Its closed-cell properties mean it has good resistance to solvents, and its low particle density makes it a great insulator, being both heat absorbent and a good acoustic/sound insulator.
What are some PVC Foam Uses?
PVC foam is used widely in the marine industry to manufacture different items due to its water resistance, but it has thousands of uses. PVC foam sheet’s light weight, good mechanical insulation properties and strong bonds make it excellent for These include but are not limited to:
- Scale models
- Theatrical props
- Wheelchair seat cushions
- Photo albums and folders,
- Coasters
- Seals and Gaskets
- Sports equipment
- Sun visors for cars
- Imitation leather
- Shoe insoles
- Cushioning for face masks
Because it is easy to fabricate and bond, resistant to rain, wind and sunlight, PVC Foam is perfect for everyday uses.
What Are The Advantages Of Closed-Cell PVC Foam Sheets Over Other Foam Materials?
The properties of PVC foam give it many advantages in a lot of situations.
Water-resistant: PVC foam doesn’t absorb or react with water, swell or lose its shape. Because of the closed cell structure, PVC foam is fit for all types of weather and marine use.
Corrosion-resistant: PVC foam is a non-reactive material, which means it cannot be corroded by chemicals.
Fire-resistant: PVC foam does not burn, melt or degrade under heat. Fire-resistant materials such as PVC foam boards can be used anywhere to insulate, provide cushioning or reduce vibration impact.
Easy to shape: Not only can you cut PVC foam into any shape, but because it is a moulded product it can be cast in custom shapes as needed, for moulded seat cushions for example.
Easy to colour: How many plastics can be painted? PVC foam can hold any type of paint well, so if you are using it for exterior wall panels you can easily fit it to your style.
Highly Durable: The high-density polymer chains in PVC foam make it strong and resistant to damage or deformation.
How Are PVC Foam Sheets Made?
PVC foam is made by mixing Polyvinyl Chloride and Polyurea under controlled conditions, before setting in a mould. The mould is heated to solidify the PVC foam, which is then expanded in a bath of hot water until the desired density is reached, before being cured. This process gives the foam its closed-cell structure and excellent mechanical properties. Cured blocks are cut into sheets of varying thicknesses.
What Is The Easiest Way To Cut PVC Foam Sheets?
You can easily cut PVC foam sheets with a hacksaw or a utility knife. Mark the shape you wish to cut on the sheet using any pen and carefully cut through the foam. The closed cell structure is present throughout the sheet, so cutting does not affect its water or chemical resistance or insulating properties.
Is PVC Foam Sheet Waterproof?
Yes, PVC Foam sheets are highly resistant to moisture. This makes them useful for sportswear, outdoor furnishings, coasters, and other outdoor or drinks-related uses.
Is PVC Foam Sheet Heat Resistant?
Yes, PVC foam sheet is heat and fire resistant. It will not melt or burn and can be used anywhere to insulate against heat transfer.
Where Can You Buy PVC Foam Sheets?
At Kirkfield, we manufacture PVC foam sheets in a range of sizes and thicknesses, to custom requirements. We also create continuous rolls of PVC foam, as well as PVC foam gaskets and strips. If you’d like to request a sample of PVC foam sheet from us, or call to discuss your requirements, take a look at our PVC foam sheet product page.
Thank you for reading our answers to your questions about Polyvinyl Chloride Foam. We hope this information has been helpful, but if you have any further questions about this product we are always happy to take your call. At Kirkfield Rubber & Adhesive products we manufacture a wide range of polymers and rubbers as well as heavy duty tapes for industrial and domestic use. Feel free to browse our rubber products to find what you need with Kirkfield.
