Use of polyurethane foams in the automotive industry

Urethane foams are widely used in almost all industries, from construction to the manufacture of furniture or medical equipment. In addition to high-stiffness materials for the manufacture of components for a wide range of machinery, equipment and everyday objects, from casings to crockery, flexible urethane foams are also very popular, e.g. for all types of seals and cushioning components.

Foam materials, the structure of which is formed by using a suitable gas in the production process, such as polyurethane foams, are equally useful. These have many applications due to their properties - low weight, flexibility for open-cell materials or high rigidity for closed-cell foams. High thermal insulation, sound dampening and vibration absorption capacities are also important. One of the largest customers for such products is the automotive industry.

What foams are used in the automotive industry?

Various types of synthetics are used in the automotive industry, but flexible polyurethane rebound foams are proving particularly useful. They are characterised by very low loss of rigidity during use and dimensional stability. They guarantee excellent air permeability due to their open cell properties and withstand both high and low temperatures very well. They are also resistant to chemicals and do not create a good environment for the growth of pathogenic micro-organisms. They can also be manufactured in different versions in terms of density and thus hardness and strength, as well as fire resistance - flame retardant.

What can polyurethane foams be used for?

Polyurethane foams have many uses, but in the automotive industry they are mainly used as upholstery components for seats and backrests, as well as other parts of the cabin furnishings from the door sides through the tunnel to the dashboard or headrest fillings. They are often used as soundproofing or thermal insulation. They are also useful as spacers.