Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About typical properties
The foams were tested in accordance with ASTM C518-10. The R value for 2 pound XLPE is around 4. Higher density foam has a lower R value. Our 15 pound XLPE tested a value of just under 2 in R. Generally, the higher the R value, the better the insulation.
The maximum continuous operating temperature of our XLPE foam is -40 ° F to 225 ° F (-40 ° C to 107 ° C)
XLPE foam does not have a shelf life.
Yes, it does; Due to the closed cell structure, XLPE is a water resistant foam. Click Here to calculate the buoyancy of the foam.
A clean room is a controlled space in which airborne contaminants are carefully kept within strict limits. These rooms are often used in manufacturing to avoid contamination. Our foam is biologically inert or inactive and is commonly used in many applications where a clean room is required.
We currently have XP-18UL in charcoal. It meets the UL 94 test standard. In addition, most of our foam passes the FMVSS-302 motor vehicle specification. This standard measures the horizontal combustion rate of materials to be used in the occupant compartments of motor vehicles. A horizontal burn rate of less than four inches per minute qualifies as approved.
Our foam works well with adhesives. However, your adhesive supplier would be the best person to speak to regarding any specific questions. We have 4 types of pressure sensitive adhesive as an additional service. Contact us for more information.
EVA stands for Ethylene Vinyl Acetate. WF's XLPE and EVA foam products are similar materials and are difficult to distinguish. The main differences are that EVA is softer, stronger and has a stronger recovery after compression. Whereas polyethylene foams are firmer and heat resistant. Both provide excellent protection and shock absorption for packaging applications. EVA is a copolymer of ethylene and contains a wide range of VA percentage. VA additive improves typical properties such as tensile, tear, elongation, and compression hardening while providing increased strength and a smooth, smooth feel.
Less than 0.3125 "+/- 0.03125" (1/32 ")
0.32" - .875 "= +/- 10% of thickness
.88 to 2" tolerances = +/- .094 "(3/32 ")
Tolerances greater than 2" = +/- .125 "(1/8")
2 "single stage foams, designated by R = 1.875" Min, 2.00 "Max
3" and 4 "single stage foams, designated by the R = +/- .125 "(1/8")
(Single stage foam beveled sheets fall within our standard tolerances)
Cellular foams are made up of millions of tiny cavities or cells. These cells can be interconnected (open cell) or not connected (closed cell). Most of the cells or bubbles in closed cell foams do not rupture; they resemble inflated balloons compressed together in a compact configuration. Open cell foams are connected to each other with an opening so that water, air or gas can pass through them, similar to the way a sponge absorbs water. Cell walls, or bubble surfaces, break and air fills all spaces in the material.
Single stage production uses only one set of molds and is considerably faster. Two-stage, as the name implies, uses two sets of molds to make the finished product. Within the same density range, two-stage foams typically have a smoother surface, fewer pores, and slightly better physical characteristics. A stage tends to be heavier for a given hardness and has a thicker surface. Click Here to view the one-stage vs. two-stage whitepaper.
XLPE is naturally UV resistant, bacteria inactive, and non-toxic. We regularly test our foam to determine the characteristics described on our typical property sheets. If you need to meet a certain standard or want to do a test yourself, we will gladly provide you with a sample of the desired foam. If certain volume requirements are met, we may be able to test a certain standard that you are looking for. If you want additives added to the foam, this will count as a special order and will need to meet special rates and requirements.
Due to the structure of the crosslinking cell, XLPE foam is difficult to recycle. However, after years of study and development, there are some companies that have successfully developed ways to recycle XLPE waste and reuse the materials for other applications. This allows XLPE foam producers and converters to save their waste from the landfill. Provides thousands of dollars in savings for your vendor partners by eliminating disposal fees. Good for the planet, good for your bottom line. For more information on recycling XLPE, see our source web page