Comparing Foam Types: How to Select the Right Material for Your Application
SEKISUI Voltek produces different types of foam for a wide range of applications. Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foams are some of our most common. Each have their distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different uses. In today’s post, we will discuss the properties of these foams and some common ways in which people use these foams.
Polyethylene Foams (PE)
Polyethylene foams are very versatile closed-cell foams that provide a combination of durability and moisture resistance. They are also lightweight and provide good cushioning, making them a great choice for protective packaging, construction, marine, medical, and insulation needs, among others. PE foam uses include:
Packaging
- Protective Packaging for Electronics
- Custom Equipment Cases
- Medical Device Packaging
- Automotive Component Packaging
- Shipping Inserts
- Tool Box Organizers
Construction
- Expansion Joint Fillers
- Flooring Underlayment
- Pipe Insulation
- Concrete Expansion Joints
- Window and Door Sealing
- Roof Insulation
Marine
- Boat Flotation
- Dock Flotation
- Marine Cushions
- Life Vest Inserts
- Waterproof Storage Inserts
Consumer Products
- Protective Sports Equipment
- Helmet Liners
- Reusable Coolers
- Lightweight Furniture Components
Industrial
- Gaskets
- Seals
- Vibration Dampening
- HVAC Insulation
- Protective Pads
- Machine Packaging
Medical
- Orthotic Padding
- Medical Packaging
- Patient Positioning Blocks
- Rehabilitation Equipment
Polypropylene Foams (PP)
Polypropylene foams are valued for a higher strength-to-weight ratio and their ability to thermoformed into various shapes. PP foams also have a greater resistance to high temperatures and chemical resistance, making them ideal for the automotive, industrial, aerospace, and HVAC industries. Common uses for PP foam include:
Automotive
- Door Panels
- Instrument Panel Cores
- Bumper Energy Absorbers
- Headliners
- Trunk Liners
- Interior Trim Components
Industrial
- Reusable Shipping Containers
- Dunnage Trays
- Material Handling Totes
- Protective Returnable Packaging
- Equipment Inserts
Aerospace
- Aircraft Interior Panel substrates
- Lightweight Structural Components
- Insulation
- Cargo Protection
HVAC
- Air Duct Insulation
- Thermal Barriers
- Equipment Insulation
- Noise Reduction Panels
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Foams (EVA)
A much softer and flexible foam option, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Foams are ideal for applications in which comfort and impact absorption are priorities. This makes EVA foam a great option for sporting goods, footwear, medical applications, toys, and all sorts of padding. Common EVA foam applications include:
Footwear
- Shoe Midsoles
- Insoles
- Sandals
- Athletic Footwear
- Orthotic Inserts
Sports & Recreation
- Yoga Mats
- Exercise Flooring
- Protective Sports Pads
- Martial Arts Mats
- Gym Flooring
- Pool Floats
- Exercise Equipment Padding
Children’s Products
- Foam Puzzle Mats
- Educational Toys
- Play Mats
- Craft Foam
- Safety Padding
- Bath Mats
Medical
- Prosthetic Liners
- Orthopedic Supports
- Medical Braces
- Wheelchair Cushions
- Patient Positioning Pads
Marine
- Boat Decking
- Kayak Padding
- Paddle Grips
- Fishing Rod Grips
- Personal Watercraft Traction Pads
Consumer Products
- Camera Case Inserts
- Protective Carrying Cases
- Cosmetic Packaging
- Electronics Protection
- Laptop Sleeves
Foam Solutions for Your Needs
No matter what sort of application you have in mind, SEKISUI Voltek can provide you with the proper foam solutions to meet those needs. If you have a different application in mind, contact us and tell us how we can help with your foam needs.
