processingdetails

Structural Foam

Structural Foam Molding is a low-pressure injection molding process that is capable of producing very large structural parts. In the process of structural foam molding, the molten plastic material is poured into a mold after being mixed with a blowing agent or high-pressure gas. This produces bubbles in the plastic causing it to foam. The foam retains the properties of the plastic but weighs less because of reduced density.

Being similar to the injection molding process, structural foam molding is a low pressure method of processing thermoplastics, with the most commonly used resin being high density polyethylene. The end product is typically a rigid part with a relatively hard surface. Structural foam should not be confused with expanded polystyrene (EPS), which can be associated with the white disposable foam blocks that package and protect new appliances and electronics.