Polyurethane foam

What is polyurethane foam?

Polyurethane is created from a chemical reaction of, among other things, isocyanates and polyols. The polyurethane foams (polyethers) we supply have an open cell structure. This makes it a flexible, elastic, resilient and soft material.

The material is widely used in mattresses and packaging materials. Naturally, we use it as sound absorption and sound insulation.

Where do you use the polyurethane foam?

The acoustic foam (or sound foam, sound insulation foam) has an open cell structure. This gives it an absorbent property. In other words, it dampens sound. Online you can also find PU with a closed cell structure, but these have no acoustic effect.

Firstly, it is used as a sound-insulating foam for hollow spaces, for example. Think of a cavity between internal walls (not suitable for damp spaces or external walls). Sandwich panels are also made from it for casings. In which the sound foam is enclosed between two multiplex or MDF plates, for example.

Secondly, it is used as acoustic foam. This means that it is used to counteract reverberation and the formation of sound boxes. An example is a casing around a pump that is very noisy. You can attenuate the inside with this material. Another example is the damping of ventilation ducts or an engine compartment.

Thirdly, it can also be used to improve the acoustics of a room. Especially in sound studios and server rooms, it is pasted on walls. This is done to create a quieter room. Due to strict fire safety requirements, it is not recommended for use on walls in public buildings.

Characteristics of acoustic foam

The PU foam we offer is of high acoustic quality due to its high specific weight.

Polyurethane foams are resistant to ageing for approx. 5 – 10 years. This depends on the application. Under a vehicle hood or in a lot of sunlight it will age faster than in a server room.

In addition, we also have acoustic foam with special top layers that are more resistant to oil and water splashes.

The polyurethane-based acoustic foam is flame-retardant according to FMVSS 302 and UL-94 class HF1. For this reason, polyether foams are not recommended for use in public areas. This with regard to high requirements with regard to fire safety.

Sound foam variants

EASYfoams are available in different variants. First of all, we offer each variant in different thicknesses. The thickness of a sound insulation foam largely determines the acoustic quality. In summary: the thicker the better it dampens sound. The exact absorbent differences can be found on the product page.

In addition, we offer acoustic foam with different structures. Think of convoluted, pyramid or flat foams (TC2). Some variants also have a top layer that provides better protection against oil or water splashes. These are EASYfoam PU or AC2.

These variants can be used in a machine room or a casing of a water pump.

All variants have a self-adhesive backing. Of course, we are happy to help you choose the right variant!

Processing

The acoustic foam can be cut to size with a Stanley knife or band saw.

We also offer the option for customisation. You can have a special shape or size made to measure by us within the maximum dimensions. This saves time and is efficient.

For good adhesion to the surface to be covered, it must be clean, dry and free of dust and grease. For a rough or puckered surface, we recommend using additional contact adhesive for optimal adhesion.

Advice

If you are using technical foams in one of your products, machines or in your building, we are happy to provide you with advice. We distinguish ourselves with a wide range, large stocks, good prices and options for quick customisation.

Ruben de Visser

Acoustics specialist

Ask the experts

If you want more insight into the current acoustic situation, you can request a measurement on location.

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