What is the heat resistance of rigid expanding foams?

The heat resistance of rigid foams will range from about 110°F (43°C) to 125°F (52°C).

There are variables that will affect the heat resistance of a foam casting:

  • Higher density foams, such as FOAM-iT! 26, will have higher heat resistance than lower density foams, such as FOAM-iT! 5.
  • Casting thickness will also make a difference. A foam casting that is 3" (6 cm) thick will have better heat resistance than a casting that is 1/2" (1 cm) thick.

What will happen to a rigid foam casting that is exposed to higher than recommended heat?

Depending on the temperature and duration of heat exposure a rigid foam casting will soften and may distort depending on casting thickness and configuration.

Caution: Rigid foam castings exposed to temperatures above 400°F (205°C) for even a short period will degrade. At a high enough temperature, some foam products may catch fire and burn creating a very hazardous breathing environment. Consult the SDS for the rigid foam product you are using for more information.

Disclaimer
This FAQ article is offered as a guideline and offers possible solutions to problems encountered during mold making and casting. No warranty is implied and it is up to the end user to determine suitability for any specific application. Always refer to the provided Technical Bulletins (TB) & Safety Data Sheets (SDS) before using any material. A small scale test is suggested to determine suitability of any recommendation before trying on a larger scale for any application.