Description

FlexFoam-iT!™ series foams are high quality, water-blown flexible foams that can be used for a variety of industrial, special effects and arts and crafts projects. Among the many possible uses are the manufacture of theatrical props (swords, knives, hammers, etc.), industrial seals, custom padding and cushioning, etc. Dyes can be added for colour effects. The liquids from parts A and B are combined, mixed and poured into a mould or other form (apply a release agent if necessary). The mixture rises and hardens quickly to a solid, flexible foam. The foams vary in density and have good physical properties. (FlexFoam-iT™ X is easy to use (1:1, no scales needed to calculate scales) and is perfect for creating incredibly realistic props and food displays).

Instruction

Preparation

Store and use at room temperature (73°F/23°C). Use in a low humidity environment (less than 50% relative humidity). Mixing containers should have straight sides and flat bottoms. Mixing sticks should be flat and rigid with defined edges to scrape the sides and bottom of your mixing container. Good ventilation (room size) is essential.

This product has a limited shelf life and should be used as soon as possible.

Wear safety glasses, long sleeves and rubber gloves to minimise the risk of contamination.

As no two applications are the same, it is recommended that a small test be carried out to determine the suitability of the product for your project if the performance of this material is in question. Application of a release agent

Urethane foams are adhesive and stick to many surfaces. We recommend the use of Ease Release 2831 to release urethane foam from most surfaces.

If the application of the release agent is particularly difficult (example: urethane foam release from urethane rubber), we recommend an application of Universal Mold Release followed by an application of Ease Release 2831.

WARNING: Do not use Universal Mold Release alone, or any other silicone based release agent. The foam will collapse.

IMPORTANT: To ensure complete coverage, lightly brush the release agent with a soft brush on all surfaces. Allow the release agent to dry for 30 minutes. The shelf life of the product is reduced after opening. The remaining product should be used as soon as possible. Immediately replacing the lids on both containers after dispensing will help extend the shelf life of unused product.

XTEND-IT™ Dry Gas Blanket (available from Smooth-On) will significantly extend the shelf life of unused liquid urethane products.

Pre-mix Parts A and B – Stir or shake Parts A and B well before dispensing product.

Measure – Stop! Know the mixing ratio of the foam product you are using. Some are by weight and some are by volume. Dispense the correct amounts of part A and part B into a large mixing container.

For best results – Pre-mix Part B after measuring the product – although not necessary, pre-mixing Part B using a drill and mechanical mixer (such as a turbine mixer available from Smooth On) after measuring and before combining with Part A will give the best results. For best results – Use a mechanical mixer – Mix for 30 seconds and pour into the mould or form. Mix by hand – Mix quickly and deliberately for 30 seconds. Be sure to aggressively scrape down the sides and bottom of your mixing container several times. Pour into the mould or form. Be careful not to splash any low viscosity liquid out of the container. Remember that these materials harden quickly. Do not delay between mixing and pouring.

Pouring and curing – For best results, pour your mixture into a single point at the lowest point of the containment field and allow the mixture to seek its level. Leave space in the containment field to allow the foam to expand to its final volume. Allow the foam to cure for at least 30 minutes before handling.

Mass Concentration / Mould Configuration – Pouring large amounts at a time into certain mould configurations (i.e. cylinders) could result in excess heat and cause cracking. Casting in stages in layers can solve this problem.

Improving surface finish and reducing voids with back pressure – Plugging the mould cavity opening with a plate with pre-drilled holes will improve the surface finish of some foams.

Is your foam collapsing? – This is a common phenomenon associated with cold temperatures, improper mixing or both.

Environment or material too cold? Warm it up.

Improper mixing? You need to carefully pre-mix the two parts A and B. After combining A and B, mix well. If you are using a mechanical mixer, mix for 30 seconds. If you are using a hand mixer, mix quickly and aggressively, almost whipping the material.

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