As a custom material converter, Bristol Tape engineers work with a wide range of materials on a daily basis. Recently, we’ve seen one type of material used more often across industries: 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams. These all-purpose cushioning foams are gaining popularity because of their durability, low compression set, broad temperature range, consistent force deflection and other characteristics. Let’s explore those traits as well as some common applications and biggest benefits of 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams.

Characteristics and benefits of 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foam

3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams are a series of polyether polyurethane foams that are both soft, supportive and highly conformable, creating new opportunities for design engineers. These open-celled foams have a low compression set, are available in soft and very soft formulations and can be delivered in bulk-roll format or converted to a specific size and shape. The material is available in multiple stiffnesses, multiple densities (10, 15, 20 and 25 lb/ft3) and eight different foam thicknesses, ranging from 1/32” to 1/2”. The material provides enhanced strength and durability, with a tensile strength range of 496 – 933 kPa, and tear strength evaluated at 2.6 - 4.1 kN/m.

Some of the main benefits of 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams include:

• Greatly improves energy control (i.e., impact absorption and vibration damping)
• Experience less than 1% compression set at room temperature
• Compatible with a wide range of 3M adhesives
• Resilient in extreme environments (-40°C to 107°C operating range)
• Maintains form when exposed to water and humidity
• Provides excellent corrosion resistance

Applications for 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foam

The cushioning and durability of 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams make them a preferred choice for permanent applications such as gasketing or gap filling. But the material can also be used for a host of other applications. 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams are generally well-suited for applications involving changing compression, extreme environments, medium to high sealing compression force, indirect water exposure and all applications with high impact or vibration.

Some of the most common applications for 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams include:

• Gasketing and sealing
• Buzz, squeak and rattle (BSR/NVH)
• Gap filling
• Vibration damping
• Shock absorbing
• Appliance sealing
• Taillight sealing
• Equipment mounting
• Padding
• Light-weighting
• Seals in NEMA boxes

It’s worth noting that while 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams can handle some moisture and humidity, in general, polyether polyurethane foams are not recommended for continuous use in water. So, if a particular gasket or component requires a waterproof seal, alternative materials may be required.

In general, the versatility of the material is what makes 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams so appealing for designers and engineers. This is why the foams are used by manufacturers across industries and market segments, including:

• Automotive
• Electronics
• Industrial
• Medical
• Appliance
• HVAC
• Heavy equipment
• Power generation

Why use 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams?

The bottom line is that these foams are extremely versatile, incredibly durable, strong and highly conformable to meet a wide range of application requirements. They are used across industries and can be easily converted to fit your unique manufacturing needs. With a low compression set, high durability and the high standard of quality associated with all 3M materials, 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foams can be a great choice for improving the performance and longevity of custom components.

Considering using 3M ISOLOSS™ LS foam in your next project? Contact Bristol Tape today or request a quote to see how our material converting services can increase manufacturing efficiency for your business.