What is the maximum use temperature of ETHAFOAM™ brand products?
Foams such as ETHAFOAM brand polyethylene foam tend to soften at higher temperatures, as this is a characteristic of the thermoplastic resins from which they are produced. As temperature is raised, the foam may therefore become too soft for some applications. Unfortunately, there is no consistent industry definition of “maximum use temperature.” One standard laboratory test commonly performed on polyethylene foams subjects the foam samples to 24 hours in an oven at 70°C (158°F). The samples are then returned to room temperature and measured for linear dimensional change in all three directions. Under this test, ETHAFOAM products consistently show less than 1% linear change. Results from this test are sometimes used to determine a “maximum use temperature.” Note that this test is carried out with no loading placed upon the foam. If the foam is expected to maintain its function and dimensions under a load it may be necessary to reduce the maximum use temperature accordingly. Specific tes
