What is this material?PE rigid foam is a lightweight, closed-cell polyethylene foam. It is sturdier than PE soft foam, yet remains compressible and significantly more flexible than solid plastic. The sheets are light grey and available in thick versions.
What is it suitable for?The higher rigidity makes this foam suitable for case inlays, protective packaging, technical pads, layered forms, and decorative parts. It supports products without adding the weight of a solid sheet.
When designing.Thicker foam results in a wider and slightly slanted cut. Therefore, allow extra space around closely fitting inlays and avoid very small details. Due to stretching, compression, and relaxation, the final size may slightly deviate from the drawing.
When laser cutting and engraving.The cut usually remains clean and is roughly the same color as the material. Surface engraving creates a relatively deep indentation. Some dark flashback from the laser bed may be visible on the underside; protective film is not possible with this material.
Finishing and maintenance.PE rigid foam can be provided with double-sided adhesive film. Protective film is not possible. You can trim the foam with a knife or hot-knife. If you use your own glue or paint, test the adhesion on a scrap piece first.
