Physical foaming without first having to install a new machine is now an attractive option with Optifoam™. If you are focusing on high density foam (>200 kg/m3), Optifoam™ is just what you need.
Whether you want to substitute chemical blowing agents or you want to turn a standard extruder into a foam production line, Sulzer's Optifoam™ technology gives you a competitive edge by allowing production of physically foamed parts without any massive investment and shifts in production.
Optifoam™ is a highly versatile solution that can be fitted /retrofitted on just any conventional extruder, single or twin-screw.
Optifoam™ upgrades your performances compared to foam produced with chemical blowing agents!
Optifoam™ is quick and easy to install (one day is enough to get stated). The Optifoam™ system is a turn key solution comprising a innovative fluid injection nozzle, well proven static mixer technology and a mass flow controlled dosing device for the physical blowing agent.
Applications include: film, packaging, cables, profiles...
And it is suitable for most polymers: PS, PET, PP, PE, ABS, PA...
Figure1: Optifoam™ system
Advantages compared to chemical blowing agents: Minor blowing agent costs Higher foaming rates possible No water decomposition from chemical reaction No remaining chemical substances in the final product Suitable for direct food contact application, FDA proofed "Green" solution with environmentally friendly gases
Advantages compared to other physical foaming solutions: No special machine necessary (conventional extruder can be used) Decoupling of process steps (plasticizing, adding and mixing of blowing fluid) No processing limitations caused by special screw design with shear elements Independent of extruder make or model Easy installation and quick start up
Save on Raw Material and Production Costs by implementing Optifoam™
Optifoam™ can help you cutting costs by several 10.000EUR per month! Payback time can be as little as 2 months, as demonstrated on the table below.
Flexible turn key solution (no need to invest into special foam extrusion line) Raw Material savings (both resin AND additives) Less ecotax Accelerated foam production start-up Not necessary to buy specific foam masterbatch
Payback Time
PET Coex sheet A-B-A
Substitution of chemical foaming agents
Optifoam™ upgrades your performances compared to foam produced with chemical blowing agents!
Minor blowing agent costs 
Save on Raw Material and Production Costs by implementing Optifoam™