If you need a foam product or material with excellent performance, appearance and versatility, cross-linked foams are the best option.
Cross-linked foams are materials in which polymer chains are chemically or physically bonded to form an interconnected 3D structure. The result is a fine, closed-cell foam that is highly durable, water-resistant, and returns to its original shape after impact or compression. Cross-linked polyethene foam (XLPE) in particular also offers excellent thermal insulation and vibration dampening.
At Polyformes, our expertise in cross-linked foams enables us to recommend and supply suitable materials or fabricated products for a wide range of applications. Our vast experience as an XLPE foam supplier has seen us support businesses with their packaging, automotive, construction, sports and leisure, and medical applications (among many others).
Your business can source the widest range of cross linked foams from a single UK supplier, either in sheet form or as converted products.
Cross-linked foams provide the following benefits:
There are two ways foams are cross-linked: chemically or physically. Chemical cross-linking uses chemical foaming agents, such as dicumyl peroxide, whereas physical cross-linking involves exposing the polymer to high-energy electron beams to form the bonds.
The majority of cross-linked foams are manufactured using Polyethylene. Cross-linked polyethene foam (XPE/XLPE foam) offers a fine cell structure, a smooth surface, and a range of beneficial properties. Other cross-linked foams include those made from Polyolefin, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
Cross-linked foams are suited to a wide range of applications. Although popular for high-performance protective packaging, these foams are also commonplace in automotive components, sports equipment, medical devices, construction and insulation.
Cross-linked foams are also typically closed-cell materials. Closed-cell foam means the cells or bubbles in the material are unconnected. This structure makes the material water-resistant and provides excellent thermal insulation and shock absorption.
At Polyformes, we have a team of experts well-versed in the performance and nuances of cross-linked foams (as well as other foam materials). By working with us, this offers your business several benefits.
Material options
Trade service
Industry knowledge
In-house processing
Short lead times
UK experts
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If you need high-performance, single-trip packaging to ship your valuable or fragile products, custom foam end caps are the most cost-effective option. 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 packaging experts:
Technical Sales
Emma Atterbury
[email protected] | 01525 852 444
Quotes / Pricing
Amy Donnelly
[email protected] | 01525 852 444
Customer Service
Ian Rumsey
[email protected] | 01525 852 444