Upholstery Foam Sheets FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions on Upholstery Foam Sheets

What is ILD?

ILD stands for Indentation Load Deflection (sometimes known as IFD or Indentation Force Deflection). ILD is a type of measurement used to determine the foams true level of firmness. The higher the number relating to ILD, the higher the firmness in a specific foam type. To test the level of firmness of a particular type of foam, as standard a sample measuring 15 inches x 15 inches x 4 inches is used. In order to test how firm the foam is, a 50 square inch roller is used across the mattresses surface in order to indent it by a total of 25 percent. An ILD test helps to give a general impression of how firm a particular type of foam is, without having to personally test it out first-hand.

What is Upholstery Foam Sheet Density?

In generic terms, density outlines how much mass an object has per a unit of volume. In regards to our foam, the density is measured in grams per cubic meter. It is important to understand the density of the foam because foams with differing densities are all suitable for various purposes. In order to determine a foam type’s density, you must first calculate the foams volume and weight. Volume is calculated by multiplying together the length, width, and height of the foam. The foam is then weighed in grams or kilograms. Density is then calculated by dividing the weight of the foam, by its volume.

Fire Behaviour – What is a Crib?

When crib is used in regards to fire safety, it’s referring to a wooden construct used to determine an items flammability levels within testing environments. As outlined in “Fire Behaviour of Upholstered Furniture” written by Vytenis Babrauskas and John Krasny, the use of a crib is defined. There are four types of cribs used in order to determine an upholstered items flammability levels and whether or not it is safe. When it comes to contract furniture materials and children’s furniture materials, they are tested against ignition source 5. Ignition source 5 is a 16 g wooden crib. It is made of pine wood, conditioned within a warm and dry environment for a week and is held together using a suitable wood glue. It will burn for 200 seconds and outputs heat levels typically of around 1900 W.

When you see the words Crib V following a statement of fire behaviour, it means that a particular material has been tested against ignition source 5 (or V as the Roman’s would say).

Fire Behaviour - What is UL 94?

UL 94 means that a material complies with UL94 testing for flammability of plastic materials for parts in devices and applications. This test aims to examine a materials tendency to extinguish or spread a flame once it has been ignited and was released by Underwriters Laboratories in the United States.

There are two types of classification for testing low-density foam materials, these being HF-1 and HF-2.

HF-1 means that a material stops burning within 3 seconds after ignition, afterglow is less than 30 seconds and burning drips have been allowed.

HF-2 means that a material stops burning within 2 seconds after ignition, afterglow is once again less than 30 seconds and no burning drips were allowed.

Can I purchase Upholstery Foam Sheets From You If I Don’t Live in the UK?

Absolutely! If you live outside of the United Kingdom, we’ll still gladly supply you with foam sheets. Please, however, contact us directly in order to determine shipping costs and delivery time frames. We’ve sold foam to numerous clients overseas and will gladly do the same for you if the need arises.

Can I Choose Which Colour My Sheets Are?

Our products come in a variety of colours, however, we are unable to alter colours to suit customer preference. We’d advise not making a purchase based on the colour of our materials and instead through reading the benefits that each type offers. Of course, if it’s simply a certain coloured foam you’re looking for, then go right ahead. Colour helps us to differentiate each foam type and thus quickly gauge its properties. This enables us to increase efficiency and makes it easier for our fabricators to process your order swiftly.

Which Foam Sheet is Right For Me?

If you head on over to our products page, you’ll see that each product comes with a detailed description of the foam type. This description includes the benefits of each as well as recommended applications. If you’re still struggling to determine which type is right for you, however, you can always get in contact with us. Our team of experts are always happy to help and can advise you on the best products to suit your needs. Simply call 01494 441177 to speak to a member of our sales team.