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What is the density of Foam-iT! 5 foam?

Published: July 12th, 2024
Last Updated: August 27th, 2024

Foam-iT! 5 Rigid Polyurethane Foam expands significantly, up to about ten times its original volume, according to the manufacturer's description.

It's pretty versatile, so you can use it for things like prop making and filling gaps. This foam comes in a two-part system where you mix equal parts by volume, and once it's set, it has a density of about 5 pounds per cubic foot. It also becomes tack-free in roughly six minutes, which is handy if you're tackling creative or functional projects.

That said, our research shows that people have had different experiences with it. While the manufacturer talks up its expansion capacity, some folks found it only grew to about 1.5 times its thickness despite sticking to the recommended temperature and environmental conditions. This suggests that its expansion might depend quite a bit on specific conditions, like how accurately you're mixing it or the environment where it's used.

We also saw some variability in achieving the expected density, with results sometimes differing based on things like the shape or size of the mold or container you use during the curing process. These variations highlight how important it is to be precise with mixing and applying to get the results the manufacturer aims for.

To deal with these quirks, it might be a good idea to start with small test batches. That way, you can see how the foam behaves in your particular setting and make any needed adjustments to get the density and expansion you're after.

Folks who have some experience with projects like casting or prop building often find it effective for large models or reinforcing structures.

Just keep in mind that Foam-iT! 5 is rigid, so it's not suitable for stuff like making squishy toys or flexible items. If you need something flexible, you'll want to look elsewhere.

But if you pay close attention to how you mix and apply it, you can really make it work for your project.

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How much does Foam-iT! 5 expand?

Published: July 11th, 2024

Foam-iT! 5 by Smooth-On is a pretty versatile rigid polyurethane foam, and it typically expands to about 10 times its original size. The manufacturer mentions it uses a 1A:1B mixing ratio by volume, with a quick pot life of 1.5 minutes and a curing time of around 2 hours. It’s dense too, at 5 pounds per cubic foot, which makes it popular for things like prop-making and filling gaps.

According to our research, many folks who've tried it say it expands just as expected, assuming you get the mixing and application right. One person even mentioned they managed to make a bunch of life-sized skulls from just a pint—pretty impressive, right?

But not everyone hits that 10x expansion. Some people said their foam only grew about 1.5 times, even when they followed the directions. This can happen if the foam gets squished during curing, which might stop it from fully expanding.

So, if you're using Foam-iT! 5, it’s crucial to stick to the instructions. Things like the temperature when you’re working with it really affect how much it expands. And make sure it’s not held back as it cures, or the density and expansion might not turn out how you want.

Remember, this foam is rigid—great for solid items but not for making soft or squishy things. If you need something that bends or flexes, you'll want to check out different types of foam.

As long as you're careful about following the guidelines, Foam-iT! 5 is a solid pick for projects needing a firm, expanding foam.

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Hey! So, the Foam-iT! 5 - Rigid Polyurethane Foam from Smooth-On is mainly geared towards more industrial applications where you need something sturdy and rigid.

The manufacturer mentions that it has a 1A:1B mixing ratio and can expand up to about 10 times its size, turning into a beige foam with a uniform cell structure. It's great for stuff like reinforcing hollow castings or making special effects.

But, based on our research, while Foam-iT! 5 is excellent for offering strong, rigid support, it's not really the best fit for making squishies. This foam is more about durability and rigidity, which are perfect for things like repairing fiberglass tubs or constructing solid props, but not so much for soft, squishable projects like squishies.

There have also been some mentions in our research about variability in how much this foam expands. Some people found it didn't always hit that 10x expansion mark, with one noting it only expanded about 1.5 times, even when they followed the instructions closely.

It seems like the foam's expansion can depend on things like how well it's vented during the process.

So, if you're thinking about making squishies, you might want to check out other products that are specifically meant for creating softer and more flexible foam. Foam-iT! 5 is awesome for heavy-duty tasks but not so much for something like a squishy toy.

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