Foamed PVC
Foamalite
Our main supplier of Foamed PVC is Foamalite Ltd., who operate out of a state of the art manufacturing facility in Loch Gowna, Co Cavan in the Republic of Ireland that was opened in 1997. We stock mainly low density (also known as Express) but standard density and gloss can also be supplied upon request.
Foamalite Express is a light weight and easy to use PVC foam sheet. Its white, smooth and uniform surfaces make it the material of choice for outstanding printing results. Thanks to its degree of whiteness, Express ensures a very high fidelity of colours. It is also suitable for flat applications due to the good dimensional stability.
APPLICATIONS
- Digitally and screen printed panels
- Short and mid-term advertising campaigns
- Signage
- Ideal lamination substrate
- Flat applications
AT A GLANCE
- Smooth white surface for excellent printing results
- “Ready to use”
- Optimal ink adhesion and colour fastness
- Good dimensional accuracy of the sheets
- Suitable for flat applications
- Difficult-to-ignite according to EN 13501-1
We stock foamed PVC without the PE film on one side to reduce the static electricity produced when the board is moved or converted.
Resources
Environmental Information and Toxins
ROHS DIRECTIVE
Foamalite meets the requirements of the RoHS/WEEE directives of the European Union on the restriction of hazardous substances. Foamalite foam sheets do not contain lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), formaldehydes, CFCs, asbestos, plasticizer nor silicone.
REACH DIRECTIVE
Foamalite meets the requirements of the current version of the European Union chemicals regulation (REACH). In particular, Foamalite foam sheets do not contain any of the substances which are listed in the current version of the ECHA Candidate List of the "Substance of Very High Concern" (SVHC).
The above information above is for general public use and is designed for free public access and does not carry a warranty of any kind. Whilst we endeavour to keep the information accurate and up-to-date we cannot accept any liability for damages (direct or consequential) as a result of using the information. At all times it is the responsibility of each individual or company to check such data and product performance prior to use in each specific application.
Machining
- Thin Foamalite sheets can be cut with a strong-bladed utility knife.
- Vertical cutting machines are a very good method of carrying out cutting work without causing scratching.
- Shearing with guillotining cutters will lead to compression and some one-sided rounding at cut edges.
- Sheets up to 5mm thick can be die cut with steel rule dies on a cutting plate. Ambient temperatures should not be below 200C.
- Sheets must not be laser cut.
- Circular saw blades made of alternatively arranged flat/trapezoidal tungsten carbide tipped teeth are best for Foamalite sheets.
- Sheets may be drilled with standard twist drill bits and on CNC machines best machines with single-edged tools.
General Information
- Foamalite sheets are resistant to aqueous acids, alkalis and saline solutions as well as oils and aliphatic compounds. However, Foamalite sheets will swell or dissolve in aromatic compounds, chlorinated solutions, ethers and ketones. N.B., the damaging effect of a substance may not become apparent immediately but impact only after many hours or even months.
- Foamalite sheets must not come into contact with acetone, petrol, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), tetrahydrofuran (THF) or Toluene (eg for cleaning purposes), because these solvents cause PVC to swell or dissolve and prolonged contact may completely destroy the material.
- Foamalite Express is considerably lighter and therefore softer and less rigid than Foamalite premium due to the difference in density. It is less suitable for exterior applications. In addition, Foanmalite Express sheets are not suitable for thermoforming.
- Foamalite sheets must be stored flat, in dry surroundings at temperatures of around 200C and stress-free )remove pallet strappings). Packaged sheets must not be stored in the open (danger of deformation due to solar heat build-up). When using a forklift ensure the forks are set at a suitable width to avoid deforming the pallets in transport. (Danger of removal of nails).
Shaping and Forming Options
- Foamalite sheet performance and characteristics may vary depending on the direction of extrusion. Sharp corners and deep notches should always run at right angles to the direction of extrusion to minimise risks of breakage.
- Foamalite sheets up to approximately 6mm thick can be subjected to cold bending at room temperature. Care must be taken to observe the minimum bending radius (cold bending radius) of approximately 100 times the sheet thickness (eg 300mm for a 3mm thick sheet).
- Thick Foamalite sheets can undergo thermoforming by heating the sheet to approximately 1300C. Cooled to a rigid state, the component retains the formed shape. When Foamalite Color is subjected to hot folding, the folded areas may appear lighter in colour.
- Foamalite sheets can be fully formed and even embossed by vacuum forming. the temperature of the sheet should be approximately 1300C: the minimum temperature is 1200C and maximum 1600C Stretched areas in Foamalite Color may appear lighter in colour.
Surface Finishing
PAINTING - PRINTING - APPLICATION OF ADHESIVE FILMS
- Foamalite sheets can be painted with a water soluble one component paint systems (for the interior) and two component polyurethane paint systems (for exterior applications). the surface should be lightly sanded and treated with a primer coat before painting. the drying temperature should not exceed 500C.
- Foamalite sheets can be screen printed using printing inks suitable for rigid PVC. N.B., crack propagation can be caused by hard, full cover screen printing inks and lead to substrate brittleness if the sheet is not carefully handled. when light Foamalite Express sheets are backlit or there is printing on both sides it must be accepted that this may result in the printing on the rear showing through very slightly.
- Foamalite sheets are often printed with UV curable printing inks in direct digital printing processes. N.B: humidity in the printing room plays a vital role in the printing (45% minimum) ensuring consistent dissipation of static charges.
- Foamalite sheet surfaces are ideal substrates for the application of suitably chosen lettering films and graphics.
Fixing and Bonding
- A UV-stabilised, transparent, diffusion adhesive, often called 'PVC adhesive' is the most suitable material for cold welding Foamalite sheets with similar material (rigid PVC).
- If Foamalite sheets are to joined to other materials, due to the variety of surfaces to be bonded and different applications, specialist adhesive suppliers should be consulted.
- Chipboard screws with a 3 to 4mm shank diameter are the best means of fixing components to the surface of Foamalite sheets.
- Use only stainless steel fastening elements made for outdoor mounting of Foamalite (danger of iron stains).
- Ensure exterior mounting is tension free.
- Approximately 20mm margin should remain between the holes for the screws and the edge of the sheet, and the distance between the individual holes should not exceed 500mm.
- White Foamalite sheets are resistant to exposure from sunlight without protection for approximately three to four years. Coloured Foamalite Color sheets are not suitable for long term exterior applications as the UV rays in sunshine can lead to changes in colour. Seasonal outdoor use may be considered.
Physical Properties
Premium | Express | Colour | Plus | |||
Characteristics | Test Method | Unit | Average Results | |||
Apparent density | DIN EN ISO 1183-1 | kg/m3 | 550-700 | 450-550 | 500-580 | 530-590 |
Surface hardness | ISO 868 | Shore D | 40 | 35 | 37 | 45 |
Max service temp | - | 0C | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 |
Coefficient of linear expansion | DIN EN ISO 75-2 | mm/(m-K) | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 |
Water absorption | EN ISO 62 | % | <1 | <1 | <1 | <1 |
Behaviour in fire | EN 13501-1 | Euro-class | C-s3-d0 (difficult-to-ignite) |
C-s3-d0 (difficult-to-ignite) |
C-s3-d0 (difficult-to-ignite) |
|
NF P 92-501 | France | M1 1 - 10mm (difficult-to-ignite) |
M1 2 - 10mm (difficult-to-ignite) |
M1 3 - 10mm (difficult-to-ignite) |
||
Product Range
2mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-2000-1220-2443
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 2mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-2000-1220-2444
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-2000-1560-3054
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 2mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-2000-1560-3055
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-2000-2050-3051
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-2000-1220-2443 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 2mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-2000-1220-2444 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-2000-1560-3054 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 2mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-2000-1560-3055 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-2000-2050-3051 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
3mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-3000-1040-1550
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 1040 x 1550
1040
1550
FRPWF-3000-1220-2444
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-3000-1220-2447
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-3000-1220-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 3050
1220
3050
FRPWF-3000-1560-3053
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-3000-1560-3054
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-3000-2050-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
FRPWF-3000-2050-3051
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
FRPWF-3000-2050-4050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 4050
2050
4050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-3000-1040-1550 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 1040 x 1550 | 1040 | 1550 |
FRPWF-3000-1220-2444 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-3000-1220-2447 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-3000-1220-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 3050 | 1220 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-1560-3053 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-1560-3054 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-2050-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-2050-3051 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-2050-4050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 4050 | 2050 | 4050 |
4mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-4000-2050-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 4mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-4000-2050-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 4mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
5mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-5000-1040-1550
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1040 x 1550
1040
1550
FRPWF-5000-1220-2445
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-5000-1220-2446
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-5000-1220-3051
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 3050
1220
3050
FRPWF-5000-1550-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1550 x 3050
1550
3050
FRPWF-5000-1560-3052
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-5000-1560-3053
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-5000-1560-4050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 4050
1560
4050
FRPWF-5000-2050-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
FRPWF-5000-2050-3051
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
FRPWF-5000-2050-4050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 4050
2050
4050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-5000-1040-1550 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1040 x 1550 | 1040 | 1550 |
FRPWF-5000-1220-2445 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-5000-1220-2446 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-5000-1220-3051 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 3050 | 1220 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-1550-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1550 x 3050 | 1550 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-1560-3052 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-1560-3053 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-1560-4050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 4050 | 1560 | 4050 |
FRPWF-5000-2050-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-2050-3051 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-2050-4050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 4050 | 2050 | 4050 |
6mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-6000-2050-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 6mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-6000-2050-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 6mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
8mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-8000-2050-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 8mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-8000-2050-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 8mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
10mm white
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-9999-1220-2441
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-9999-1220-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1220 x 3050
1220
3050
FRPWF-9999-1560-3051
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-9999-2050-3050
Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-9999-1220-2441 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-9999-1220-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1220 x 3050 | 1220 | 3050 |
FRPWF-9999-1560-3051 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-9999-2050-3050 | Foamalite Xpress White Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
3mm black
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPBF-3000-1220-2444
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPBF-3000-2050-3051
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPBF-3000-1220-2444 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPBF-3000-2050-3051 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
5mm black
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPBF-5000-1220-2442
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPBF-5000-1560-3052
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPBF-5000-2050-3050
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPBF-5000-1220-2442 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPBF-5000-1560-3052 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPBF-5000-2050-3050 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
10mm black
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPBF-9999-1220-2440
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPBF-9999-2050-3050
Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPBF-9999-1220-2440 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPBF-9999-2050-3050 | Foamalite Black Foamed PVC (1S P/E Film) 10mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
Foamalite plus white/blk core
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPPF-5000-1560-3050
Foamalite Plus (White with Black Recycled Core) Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPPF-9999-1560-3050
Foamalite Plus (White with Black Recycled Core) Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 10mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPPF-5000-1560-3050 | Foamalite Plus (White with Black Recycled Core) Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPPF-9999-1560-3050 | Foamalite Plus (White with Black Recycled Core) Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 10mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
13mm forex classic
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPFO-130X-1220-3050
FOREX CLASSIC WHITE 13MM 1220 X 3050
1220
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPFO-130X-1220-3050 | FOREX CLASSIC WHITE 13MM 1220 X 3050 | 1220 | 3050 |
15mm forex classic
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPFO-150X-1560-3050
FOREX CLASSIC WHITE 15MM 1560 X 3050
1560
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPFO-150X-1560-3050 | FOREX CLASSIC WHITE 15MM 1560 X 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
19mm forex classic
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPFO-190X-1560-3050
Forex Classic White 19mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPFO-190X-1560-3050 | Forex Classic White 19mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
Foamalite premium
Foamalite Premium is a superior quality, extremely versatile PVC foam sheet. The combination of light-weight and extremely good dimensional stability makes it the perfect display board for all structural applications. The improved surface hardness ensures reliable performance and excellent results. The robust surfaces and high durability also make it suitable for interior and exterior applications.
Resources
Environmental Information and Toxins
ROHS DIRECTIVE
Foamalite meets the requirements of the RoHS/WEEE directives of the European Union on the restriction of hazardous substances. Foamalite foam sheets do not contain lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), formaldehydes, CFCs, asbestos, plasticizer nor silicone.
REACH DIRECTIVE
Foamalite meets the requirements of the current version of the European Union chemicals regulation (REACH). In particular, Foamalite foam sheets do not contain any of the substances which are listed in the current version of the ECHA Candidate List of the "Substance of Very High Concern" (SVHC).
The above information above is for general public use and is designed for free public access and does not carry a warranty of any kind. Whilst we endeavour to keep the information accurate and up-to-date we cannot accept any liability for damages (direct or consequential) as a result of using the information. At all times it is the responsibility of each individual or company to check such data and product performance prior to use in each specific application.
Machining
- Thin Foamalite sheets can be cut with a strong-bladed utility knife.
- Vertical cutting machines are a very good method of carrying out cutting work without causing scratching.
- Shearing with guillotining cutters will lead to compression and some one-sided rounding at cut edges.
- Sheets up to 5mm thick can be die cut with steel rule dies on a cutting plate. Ambient temperatures should not be below 200C.
- Sheets must not be laser cut.
- Circular saw blades made of alternatively arranged flat/trapezoidal tungsten carbide tipped teeth are best for Foamalite sheets.
- Sheets may be drilled with standard twist drill bits and on CNC machines best machines with single-edged tools.
General Information
- Foamalite sheets are resistant to aqueous acids, alkalis and saline solutions as well as oils and aliphatic compounds. However, Foamalite sheets will swell or dissolve in aromatic compounds, chlorinated solutions, ethers and ketones. N.B., the damaging effect of a substance may not become apparent immediately but impact only after many hours or even months.
- Foamalite sheets must not come into contact with acetone, petrol, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), tetrahydrofuran (THF) or Toluene (eg for cleaning purposes), because these solvents cause PVC to swell or dissolve and prolonged contact may completely destroy the material.
- Foamalite Express is considerably lighter and therefore softer and less rigid than Foamalite premium due to the difference in density. It is less suitable for exterior applications. In addition, Foanmalite Express sheets are not suitable for thermoforming.
- Foamalite sheets must be stored flat, in dry surroundings at temperatures of around 200C and stress-free )remove pallet strappings). Packaged sheets must not be stored in the open (danger of deformation due to solar heat build-up). When using a forklift ensure the forks are set at a suitable width to avoid deforming the pallets in transport. (Danger of removal of nails).
Shaping and Forming Options
- Foamalite sheet performance and characteristics may vary depending on the direction of extrusion. Sharp corners and deep notches should always run at right angles to the direction of extrusion to minimise risks of breakage.
- Foamalite sheets up to approximately 6mm thick can be subjected to cold bending at room temperature. Care must be taken to observe the minimum bending radius (cold bending radius) of approximately 100 times the sheet thickness (eg 300mm for a 3mm thick sheet).
- Thick Foamalite sheets can undergo thermoforming by heating the sheet to approximately 1300C. Cooled to a rigid state, the component retains the formed shape. When Foamalite Color is subjected to hot folding, the folded areas may appear lighter in colour.
- Foamalite sheets can be fully formed and even embossed by vacuum forming. the temperature of the sheet should be approximately 1300C: the minimum temperature is 1200C and maximum 1600C Stretched areas in Foamalite Color may appear lighter in colour.
Surface Finishing
PAINTING - PRINTING - APPLICATION OF ADHESIVE FILMS
- Foamalite sheets can be painted with a water soluble one component paint systems (for the interior) and two component polyurethane paint systems (for exterior applications). the surface should be lightly sanded and treated with a primer coat before painting. the drying temperature should not exceed 500C.
- Foamalite sheets can be screen printed using printing inks suitable for rigid PVC. N.B., crack propagation can be caused by hard, full cover screen printing inks and lead to substrate brittleness if the sheet is not carefully handled. when light Foamalite Express sheets are backlit or there is printing on both sides it must be accepted that this may result in the printing on the rear showing through very slightly.
- Foamalite sheets are often printed with UV curable printing inks in direct digital printing processes. N.B: humidity in the printing room plays a vital role in the printing (45% minimum) ensuring consistent dissipation of static charges.
- Foamalite sheet surfaces are ideal substrates for the application of suitably chosen lettering films and graphics.
Fixing and Bonding
- A UV-stabilised, transparent, diffusion adhesive, often called 'PVC adhesive' is the most suitable material for cold welding Foamalite sheets with similar material (rigid PVC).
- If Foamalite sheets are to joined to other materials, due to the variety of surfaces to be bonded and different applications, specialist adhesive suppliers should be consulted.
- Chipboard screws with a 3 to 4mm shank diameter are the best means of fixing components to the surface of Foamalite sheets.
- Use only stainless steel fastening elements made for outdoor mounting of Foamalite (danger of iron stains).
- Ensure exterior mounting is tension free.
- Approximately 20mm margin should remain between the holes for the screws and the edge of the sheet, and the distance between the individual holes should not exceed 500mm.
- White Foamalite sheets are resistant to exposure from sunlight without protection for approximately three to four years. Coloured Foamalite Color sheets are not suitable for long term exterior applications as the UV rays in sunshine can lead to changes in colour. Seasonal outdoor use may be considered.
Physical Properties
Premium | Express | Colour | Plus | |||
Characteristics | Test Method | Unit | Average Results | |||
Apparent density | DIN EN ISO 1183-1 | kg/m3 | 550-700 | 450-550 | 500-580 | 530-590 |
Surface hardness | ISO 868 | Shore D | 40 | 35 | 37 | 45 |
Max service temp | - | 0C | 55 | 55 | 55 | 55 |
Coefficient of linear expansion | DIN EN ISO 75-2 | mm/(m-K) | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.05 |
Water absorption | EN ISO 62 | % | <1 | <1 | <1 | <1 |
Behaviour in fire | EN 13501-1 | Euro-class | C-s3-d0 (difficult-to-ignite) |
C-s3-d0 (difficult-to-ignite) |
C-s3-d0 (difficult-to-ignite) |
|
NF P 92-501 | France | M1 1 - 10mm (difficult-to-ignite) |
M1 2 - 10mm (difficult-to-ignite) |
M1 3 - 10mm (difficult-to-ignite) |
||
Product Range
Foamalite premium 1mm
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-1000-1220-2441
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 1mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-1000-1220-3050
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 1mm 1220 x 3050
1220
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-1000-1220-2441 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 1mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-1000-1220-3050 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (No P/E Film) 1mm 1220 x 3050 | 1220 | 3050 |
Foamalite premium 2mm
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-2000-1220-2445
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-2000-1560-3057
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-2000-1220-2445 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-2000-1560-3057 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 2mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
Foamalite premium 3mm
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-3000-1220-2448
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-3000-1220-3052
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 3050
1220
3050
FRPWF-3000-1560-3056
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-3000-2050-3055
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-3000-1220-2448 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-3000-1220-3052 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1220 x 3050 | 1220 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-1560-3056 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-3000-2050-3055 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 3mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
Foamalite premium 5mm
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-5000-1220-2447
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-5000-1560-3054
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050
1560
3050
FRPWF-5000-2050-3054
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-5000-1220-2447 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-5000-1560-3054 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 1560 x 3050 | 1560 | 3050 |
FRPWF-5000-2050-3054 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1/S P/E Film) 5mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |
Foamalite premium 10mm
Part
Description
Width
Length
FRPWF-9999-1220-2442
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1S PE Film) 10mm 1220 x 2440
1220
2440
FRPWF-9999-2050-3051
Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1S PE Film) 10mm 2050 x 3050
2050
3050
Part | Description | Width | Length |
FRPWF-9999-1220-2442 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1S PE Film) 10mm 1220 x 2440 | 1220 | 2440 |
FRPWF-9999-2050-3051 | Foamalite Premium White Foamed PVC (1S PE Film) 10mm 2050 x 3050 | 2050 | 3050 |