Closed-cell foam in laser test

Laser cutting of closed-cell foams by Sekisui Alveo

Sekisui Alveo is known for the development and manufacturing of high quality polyolefin foams. We have now taken a close look at the manufacturer's entire product range in a laser test. Before the foams can be processed further for various industries, they must first be cut efficiently. The laser lures here as a processing method with many advantages over tools such as knives or water jets. In addition to the optimised precision - regardless of shape and contour - there is also the complete omission of a drying process, that saves you time.

Scope of application for closed-cell foams

With its closed-cell foams, Sekisui Alveo offers the right solution for a wide variety of industries. Each foam has its own, individually tailored properties with which it can meet the challenges of specific areas of application. These include, for example, the shoe industry, orthopedics and medical industry, transport, packaging, the processing industry, sealing, and insulation as well as construction and installation. In addition, Sekisui Alveo is constantly developing new products in order to continue finding new applications.

What are the benefits of cutting closed-cell with CO2-lasers?

Clean and filigree cut edges without post-processing
No tool wear due to the non-contact cutting process
High flexibility in the choice of contour
Engraving of the surface possible in one step

No material distortion as with conventional processing methods
Precise cutting without overcuts
No drying process required after processing
Cost-reduction - No further work steps prior to further processing

Close-up closed-cell foams — Closed-cell foam structure of Sekisui Alveolit in closeup

What is a closed-cell foam?

Closed-cell is the name for foams in which the cell walls of the individual vacuoles are completely closed. In contrast, there are open-cell foams in which the cell structure is open and which therefore absorb liquids and are air-permeable. Closed-cell foams are largely waterproof and airtight. The result is a firmer and more stable foam with other areas of application. The spring effect is also lower here. The cell structure of the foam does not affect its thickness. When choosing a suitable foam, attention should always be paid to the properties required in order to find a suitable solution. The Sekisui Alveo range includes a large number of different foams for every area of application.

Properties of closed-cell foam:

Powerful insulator, good thermic insolation property
Air tight seal
Moisture barrier
Long life span with good weather resistance

Good tear resistance
Varying degrees of hardness while lighter than solids
ecologically and chemically neutral
Uniform structure