Name That Foam!!!

Hi...Trying to find the identifcation of the proper foam to use when shaping parts before glass layup. I've seen simliar questions asked, but have yet to see an answer. Any help would be appreciated...Thanks

 

I have used insulating "Styrofoam" for temporary forms. I melt the foam out of my finished piece with acetone. This is *NOT* for a structural application!

 

As Phil K. implies, there is more to the question. Are you going to leave the foam in place? Is the foam a structural element, or just a locator? Is weight an issue? How big is the part?

Steve

 

Thanks for the responses...Actually I'm interested in creating a design change for a truck body...It will not be of structural importance, just for eye appeal. My hope is to just glass over the foam after shaping it. Thanks

 

In this case virtually any foam will work, I have used insulation foam from the local Home Depot- I glue several sheets together to get the desired thickness. if you aren't going to remove it, and it isn't structural, I am sure it will be fine-

 

Hi again...What are you using to shape the foam?

 

Coarse sandpaper and a chef's 12" knife do the basic form. I wrap things up with 120 grit to final shape. I paint my pieces with oil based enamel before applying epoxy/glass because it gives a smoother interior finish after I "melt" the foam out with Acetone.

Foam is soft, virtually anything will shape it.

 

Thank you....Are you speaking about the blue foam that one can purchase at Home Depot in sheets approx. 24''x96", or something else?

 

Mine was white, just like plain ole styrofoam- The foam was a standard insulating foam sheet that was designed to be placed in building walls, it comes in different thicknesses and is about the size of sheet of plywood.

Since the foam isn't structural I don't think it is so critical, however you should test your chosen resin/hardener or epoxy with a sample to make sure it won't react with the foam. I have never had problems with West System epoxy.

 

Thanks pkoken for the clarification....kudu