Foam

Foam Manufacture

Foam is made from Polyurethane. It is becoming increasingly popular as a fabric because of its many desirable characteristics. The Polyurethane foam is laminated to the back of a woven fabric. This is done by a laminating application. Heat, pressure and adhesives are all used to bond the foam to the fabric.

This foam lining is then used as a technical lining to the garment and serves the purpose of either making it more comfortable for the wearer, for example when it is used in shoes, or adding shape to the garments such as in the shoulders, as a form of shoulder pads.

Polyurethane foam can be bonded to many fabrics such as polyester fabrics, waterproof fabrics and knitted fabrics. The fabric that it is laminated to dictates the properties of the finished fabric, the foam lining, only enhances these properties. It is never used on its own; it is always covered by another fabric.

Properties of Foam

• Hypoallergenic
• Non toxic
• Soft
• Comfortable
• Lasts well
• Retains its shape well
• Resilient
• Affected badly by UV light
• Keeps the fabrics shape
• Insulating
• Cushions the wearer
• Adds shape to the garments
• Anti-Bacterial

End Uses of Foam

• Modern Alternative to more traditional fabrics
• Shoulders of garments
• Shoes
• Padded garments
• Quilting