If you require flotation blocks, life-saving equipment, marine fenders, hose floats, or specialist components, buoyancy foam provides a proven solution.
Buoyancy foam is a lightweight, closed-cell material that floats on water. Because its cells are separate from each other, this foam is highly resistant to water absorption, mildew, and punctures. Buoyancy foams are widely used in marine and flotation products because they combine low weight, durability, and long-term resistance to water, UV exposure, and harsh environmental conditions. Buoyancy foams are also popular for leisure applications, such as flotation aids, pool noodles, and life jackets.
At Polyformes, we have over 40 years’ experience in the design, manufacture and supply of high-quality buoyancy foam (both material and converted products). Our team of experts will work closely with you to identify the best solution for your specific requirements.
The benefits of using buoyancy foam include:
Buoyancy foam has two main benefits over inflatable alternatives. Firstly, foam will not puncture or deflate. Secondly, foam retains its shape, cushioning, and buoyancy properties even under heavy loads. As a result, buoyancy foam is a reliable solution for demanding marine and watersports applications.
Closed-cell polyethylene foams are typically used for buoyancy applications. Plastazote LD15 in particular, being among the lightest foams available at just 15kg/m3, is ideal for use in flotation aids, buoys, and marine products. It is also is also widely used in the manufacture of large, fibre reinforced plastic boats, as formers in hull stiffening ribs, stringers and fenders. EF220 Ethafoam is another popular choice, particularly for larger sections or components such as tubular hoses for dredging, safety booms and bridge protectors.
There are three main considerations when selecting buoyancy foam. One of the most important factors is its resistance to hydrolysis, which refers to how the material’s chemical makeup reacts when it comes into contact with water. Another factor to consider is its resistance to bacterial and mould growth, especially when used as swimming aids. Finally, many applications (such as buoys, dredging floats or fenders) require durability and the ability to withstand regular impact.
Buoyancy foam is suitable for use in outdoor applications. It offers excellent resistance to UV exposure, weathering, moisture, and impact. These properties also provide excellent longevity, even in harsh marine environments.
We don’t just manufacture buoyancy and flotation foam products – we gain a detailed understanding of our business and challenges before proposing a cost-effective solution that does exactly what you need.
Understanding
We discuss your requirements with you, gaining a full, detailed understanding of your project.
Develop
Using your products or CAD data, we develop a solution using appropriate materials.
Test
We provide pre-production samples for testing and assurance on fit and quality.
Manufacture
We manufacture your products in-house at our specialist foam conversion facility.
Support
We forge long term relationships, providing ongoing support and assistance.
At Polyformes, our experience, expertise, and in-house conversion equipment enable us to provide your business with a wide range of benefits.
UK manufacture
Short lead times
Foam experts
Single source
Vast experience
Sustainability
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If you need high-performance foam inserts, packaging, products or materials, we can help. Please contact a member of our team for a free consultation and quote.
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Our experts
The information on this page was written and checked by our team of experts. You can contact them to discuss your requirements, or for any questions you may have, using the details here.
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