A Quick Comparison Between Open Cell and Closed Cell Foam for Sealing Applications

07 June 2021

There are a bunch of materials today that can be very effective when it comes to sealing applications. One of these materials is foam. Foam is generally a type of material that can effectively trap elements, particularly gas, in a solid or a liquid. Solid foam or sponge is typically comprised of expanded rubber products that can be effective in domestic, commercial, and industrial applications.

To date, there are two types of solid foam that one can maximise. These types are open cell and closed cell foams. They boast unique characteristics and qualities that make them beneficial for specific applications. Here is a quick comparison between the two foam types.

Open Cell Foam

Open cell foams, as their name implies, have cells that are not entirely closed. Most of the time, foam products that have around 50% of open cells can be considered open cell foams, and they often have certain qualities that make them beneficial for some uses. 

For one, open cell foams can boast lower density compared to their counterpart. This quality signifies that they can allow liquid or gas to pass through, which can be great for retaining and releasing products. Sealing applications, however, cannot utilise open cell foams as elements will only pass through freely. Nevertheless, they can be economical since they do not require a lot of materials. 

These qualities make them perfect for providing comfort, which is often needed by car seats, sofas, pillows, mattresses, and internal cushions. Their ability to hold and release water likewise makes them great for sponges, mop heads, and other cleaning products. Filtration, acoustic, and support applications can also maximise products that are comprised of open cell foams. Applications that have damaging surrounding elements, however, cannot utilise products out of open cell foams.

Closed Cell Foam

Closed cell foams, on the other hand, are foams that have closed cells. The composition of these foams allows them to be effective in terms of sealing surfaces and insulating spaces. And once they are compressed, they can become water and airtight.

These foams, unlike open cell foams, can boast a wide array of densities. They can also be durable, making them applicable for protective use. And since they do not allow liquid or gas to pass through, they can be effective in resisting water degradation and mould formation. All these qualities allow these foams to be very effective in terms of domestic, commercial, and industrial sealing and repair.

The water and airtight qualities of closed cell foams allow them to be effective in sealing and gasketing applications. They can even be used for waterproofing electrical boxes, cabinetry, and other spaces that can be damaged by water. Dust, draught, and other elements can likewise be prevented from entering once closed cell foam products are utilised. Doors, windows, air conditioning units, and HVAC system can all maximise the capabilities and qualities of closed cell foam products.

To obtain closed cell foam products for sealing applications, feel free to call us at Gasketech.

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