Range extension of high performance fluoropolymer foams

Zotefoams, the foam technologists, have launched a new range of high temperature closed cell foams; an extension to the successful ZOTEK® F family of foams, based on the fluoropolymer Kynar® from Arkema.

Designated ZOTEK® F HT, the new foams offer an operational temperature limit of 160°C, an improvement of +50°C over the current ZOTEK® F range.

Four grades are currently available: ZOTEK® F40 HT and ZOTEK® F75 HT both recommended for general use in industrial applications such as chemical engineering, pharmaceutical and medical. ZOTEK® F38 HT and ZOTEK® F74 HT complete the range and are intended for use in the commercial and military aircraft and aerospace industries.

All ZOTEK® F fluoropolymer foams are characterised by their exceptional smoke, flame and toxicity properties, outstanding chemical and UV resistance and excellent insulation and moisture resistance properties.

The new ZOTEK® F HT grades also offer enhanced chemical and solvent resistance, combined with higher levels of structural rigidity.

Preliminary testing indicates noticeable improvements in terms of tensile strength, elongation, tear strength and compression set.

ZOTEK® F HT foams can be easily converted by using traditional foam fabrication techniques such as sawing, routing, gluing, laminating, welding and die-cutting. They can also be thermoformed into complex single component structures providing many benefits over multi-layer foam systems, such as weight and cost reduction.