Zouch Converters Ltd

Zouch Converters are always proud to try to offer our support to various charities throughout the year. We are totally behind raising money for such good causes and supporting those individuals that are doing something amazing and making a difference.

Back in September we donated to Just Giving, The Barclays Wheels For Change Charity 2016 on behalf of The Prince's Trust where Neil Kates, a Nottingham based enthusiastic cyclist was aiming to cycle 100km. As many of us are keen cyclists at Zouch we were happy to offer our support to Neil but also to play our part in helping a charity that supports vulnerable young people to transform their lives.

 Needless to say, not only did Neil complete the distance but also managed to finish in the top 20!

 https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/neilkates

Pressure sensitive is a term used to describe a category of adhesive tapes, when in their dry form, are permanently tacky at room temperature. It’s also known as PSA Tape, Self Adhesive Tape and Self-Stick Tape. The tape material is usually thin to allow for flexibility, with a single or double-sided coating. Its elastic nature means that it can be handled by hand.

PSA tape can bond with the slightest touch depending on the amount of pressure applied by finger or hand. Its adhesive qualities and immediate bonding make it an excellent candidate for many industries with requirements for fastening and joining. Its adhesive remains tacky at room temperature and can be removed from smooth surfaces without leaving behind residue.

What are the types of Adhesive used for PSA Tape?

Solvent-based Adhesive
Solvent-based Adhesive can offer extraordinary chemical resistance, making them well-suited for use in environments where exposure is possible, such as the outdoors, industrial appliances or exposure to caustic fluids. Solvent adhesive tape can also function at low and high temperatures, making them extremely versatile. They are strong and have a superior shear and peel strength.

Water-based Adhesive
Water-based Adhesives are often used for packaging, labelling, and tapes. They can be made in both permanent and removable PSAs. They work across a range of surfaces and substrates.

Hot Melt Adhesive
Hot Melt Adhesives (HMAs) are most commonly used for tapes and labels due to their ability to form a bond under light pressure at room temperature. There are two types of HMAs for the use in tape which are Tamper Evident (for permanent bonds) and Peel-able Sealing (for non-permanent bonds). HMAs often require tackifiers and oil modifiers to achieve the desired adhesive performance.

Rubber-based Adhesive
Rubber-based adhesive is the most cost effective PSA and offers quick stick capabilities and highly flexible bonds. They bond to low-energy surfaces and are ideal for low or room temperature applications.

What are the advantages of using PSA Tape?

• PSA Tape does not require heat, water or other solvents to activate the adhesive. They are tacky at room temperature in their dry form.
• Its permanent tackiness for adhesion easily bonds diverse materials such as plastics, wood, glass, paper, metal, and more.
• It can be easily applied with varying degrees of pressure with a finger or hand.
• It’s made of thin, light material for flexibility and ease of application.
• Reduces the assembly time of fasteners and improves productivity.
• Different levels of shear resistance.
• Gives a superior cosmetic finish and provides uniformity.

What are common industries for Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Tape?

• Medical
• Design and Engineering
• Automotive and Transport
• Electronic
• Optical
• Container Construction
• HVAC
• Industrial
• Furniture
• Packaging

Why choose a PSA Tape over alternative Adhesive Tapes?

Alternative adhesive types are hot melts, sprays, liquids, and light-cure adhesives.

• Non PSA hot melt adhesive requires specialised equipment capable of melting and delivering the adhesive.
• Spray adhesives are often solvent-borne systems applied to the substrate with air pressured mists.
• Liquid adhesives require a brush or roller for application and coating.
• Light-cured adhesives need to be exposed to UV or visible light.
• Application and surface temperature will also need to be accounted for when it comes to other adhesive tape options.

PSA Tape is applied by finger or hand with pressure. It is also more economical when considering aspects such as ongoing quality inspection and in-house application experts. It’s also not as easy to tailor alternative adhesives to specific specifications.

Choosing the right PSA Tape for your project

Application is a big factor when choosing the right PSA Tape for your project and it’s important to consider elements such as the condition of substrates, texture of substrate, temperature of application, temperature during use, exposure to light, expected usage, and how the product is applied, are to name but a few.

At Zouch, we have an unrivalled range of pressure-sensitive self-adhesive tapes that are handpicked from the world’s leading manufacturers. We’re able to deliver them as reels, spools, master logs, sheets and die-cut pieces, both single-sided or double-sided.

We have an expert technical team who will give you unbiased advice and support. Get in touch with our team about your challenge and we will help you to determine the correct PSA Tape for your project. We also offer a fast and free sample service to ensure that you’re happy with the quality of PSA Tape.

Just like that, Christmas has come and gone, as has a new year and we find ourselves moving full steam ahead into 2018 already. Despite this, we still have a couple of months to go until we can fully say goodbye to Winter and welcome Spring. In these cold times keeping warm at home is essential. We have been supplying foam to the building and construction industry for years which has earned us an exceptional reputation for keeping buildings warm.

One of the biggest reasons for heat loss in the home are the front and back doors. To check if your doors are well insulated, stand outside when it’s dark and shine a torch around the edges of the door. If light can be seen seeping in, then we’d suggest foam draught excluders to prevent the bitter cold getting through.

A warm home, cool bills - the facts

• More than 40% of all the heat lost in an average home is through the loft space and walls
• Just 270-300mm (10.5inches) of loft insulation can save up to 15% of a home’s heating costs
• Up to 20% heat loss is through doors and windows
• Up to 20% of all heat loss in the home is through ventilation and draughts

Semi open cell PVC foam can help keep your home warm

Semi open cell foam is often used for doors, walls and windows as an air, dust or draught seal. Our ZOUCHseal product line, and particularly the ZOUCHseal 90 is a great example.

ZOUCHseal 90 is a semi open cell PVC foam with a very low density and a low force to compress. The special design of this tape allows a quick application without problems. ZouchSeal 90 is designed to create a watertight seal with a minimal amount of force. This ability allows it to conform easily to rough or irregular surfaces. It is also ideal for sealing thin gauge metals or plastics which could deform easily under greater pressures. To create an adequate seal, the foam must be compressed a minimum of 30% in the thermal joint. Once in place, the foam will be able to handle normal joint movement due to thermal expansion or environmental forces.

Get in touch with our team to find out more about our extensive range of semi open cell foam and to make use of our fast and free sample service.

Last year was a great year for sport generally, but in particular boxing. 2017 saw the rapid revival of boxing, which has returned after a spell in limbo, in many ways thanks to a once in a lifetime event; the record breaking Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Conor McGregor fight in Nevada, USA in August.

Known as "The Money Fight” and "The Biggest Fight in Combat Sports History”, viewing numbers hit an all time high with pay-per-view figures breaking a staggering $1B. Closer to home, we’ve seen Anthony Joshua continue his unbeaten streak including a clash against fellow titan, Wladimir Klitschko.

We’ve been working in the sports and leisure sector for more than a decade and our advanced foams are used extensively in boxing equipment and accessories, including gloves, helmets and rings. Our range of foams deliver outstanding comfort and performance and provide unrivalled impact resistance and cushioning, yet are flexible and lightweight, making them ideal for the intense environment of a boxing arena. All of our foams are non-toxic, odour free and certified by all the relevant governing bodies.

Who knows, it’s very possible we were, in some way, up close and personal during these record breaking fights!

- Rob West

Find out more about how we support our clients specialising in competitive sport or get in touch to speak to one of our expert technical team about your challenge and we will help you to determine the optimum solution for your project.

Polyurethane (PU) is a polymer that is widely used throughout the automotive industry for vehicle manufacturing. Most polyurethanes are thermosetting polymers and that means they do not melt when heated. The most common uses of polyurethane in the automotive industry are in the manufacture of high-resilience foam seating, rigid foam insulation panels, B-pillars, headliners, suspension insulators, bumpers and other interior parts of a car.

In the UK in 2016, there were 1.7million passenger cars built which was an increase of 8.5% and it was the highest output for 17 years. Due to passenger cars becoming a rapidly growing market, the benefits of using polyurethane foams within the sector are extensive and vehicle manufacturers are becoming even more receptive to its advantages. Emissions, the environment, safety and affordability are just a few of the factors which automotive professionals must consider when embarking on new vehicle design and engineering.

Reduces noise

Whilst in previous years, car manufacturers mainly focused on keeping the sound of outside road noise out, due to the evolution of technology and motorist’s requirements for in-car wireless systems, such as GPS and handsfree communication, the interior acoustic design of a vehicle has become considerably more prevalent. The prime areas for in-car noise originate in the tires, engine and suspension. PU is widely used because of its ability to insulate and reduce interior sounds by absorbing noise and vibrations by injecting PU into the body cavities.

Not only is noise reduction essential for comfort but also fundamental when it comes to safety. Loss of concentration has a negative impact on driving behaviour and causes longer reaction times, inadequate observation and hazardous braking.

Lightweight

Vehicles are synonymous with fuel consumption and as a result of the lightweight qualities of PU, it drastically reduces vehicle weight and thus, critically improves vehicle emissions. Whilst steel is likely to remain the primary material of vehicle structures, as well other high-strength steel grades, materials such as polyurethane are aiding the need and requirement for significantly reducing weight safely. PU is also being used in electric vehicles where metal was traditionally used in design, it’s now being seen in exterior cladding, roofs and hoods, as a safe, lightweight solution.

Versatile for design

Polyurethane is versatile and can easily be adapted for freedom of design, as well as being greatly affordable. PU is often used in vehicle seating due to its superior comfort and because of its reduced material intensity, it is greatly durable. Traditional metal reinforcements used on a vehicle bodies are more often replaced by foam because of ease of adjustment based on design changes. Its high resistance to heat and its structural stability allows it to be moulded and tailored dependant on the required customisation.

Recyclable

As well as being used to reduce emissions, PU has become more popular due to its recyclability. It’s important to businesses and consumers alike that more recyclable materials are used to reduce the overall environmental footprint.

Durable

The finish of a vehicle needs to be desirable to a consumer but also durable due to the wear that it experiences daily. Vehicles require protection against numerous environmental effects such as temperature, chipping and dents caused by accidents. PU increases crash performance and stiffness levels, whilst continuing to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle.

In summary, PU has become a crucial and fundamental part of automotive design, engineering and structural builds. Whilst polyurethane was originally used to aid crash performance and increase durability, its uses have become universal due to an added need for lightweight yet affordable alternatives. 

As consumers continue to expect higher degrees of luxury and safety, as well as ongoing increases in fuel cost, the demand for polyurethane is only going to rise. PU’s ability to aid noise reduction, improve safety, reduce weight and assist comfort, will continue to  see its use in future vehicle designs.

At Zouch, our specialist automotive and transportation foams are lightweight, flexible and capable of performing to exceptional levels, in even the most demanding conditions. Our in-house design and development engineers are constantly focused on optimum comfort and cost effectiveness, as well as on reducing environmental impact and vehicle weight.

Which is why you’ll find our smart, state-of-the-art products in the interiors, exteriors and engine compartments of thousands of cars, buses, trucks, excavators and recreational vehicles worldwide. Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your specific application and we will support you from prototype to road-ready product.

The prevalence of pressure ulcers among wheelchair users and bed-ridden patients continues to be an additional complication for patients, physicians and carers alike.  From a medical point of view, pressure ulcers are considered a recurrent and difficult aspect of the management of people with complex physical disabilities. The development of ulcers has been known to significantly delay patient rehabilitation and increase the likelihood of developing secondary ailments, in extreme cases they have been known to cause death through septicaemia.

Dedicated to product development, we have been involved in the evolution of the ZOUCHefoam IXPE 30 material into a state-of-the-art cushion designed in conjunction with a medical grade silicone gel technology, used to ascertain superior postural management and pressure redistribution, as well as providing cooling properties designed for greater comfort for the patient. 

The product is specifically made for users considered at ‘high or very high risk’ of pressure ulcer development as well as for those with minor postural problems. Pre-contoured, using innovative compression moulding technology, ZOUCHefoam IXPE 30 sits below the silicone gel offering excellent postural stability. Lightweight and durable, the foam offers unique properties which ease the immeasurable pain of pressure ulcers and provide comfort and stability at the same time.

Our ZOUCHeFoams closed-cell polyethylene foams are amongst the most diverse and highest quality foams available, delivering smart, specialist benefits at a competitive price. The pre-contoured cushion has been found to fulfil a unique healthcare need. Domestic user testimonials were unequivocally positive and as a result, the medical aid has been rolled out nationwide into the NHS. The pre-contoured cushion has been found to fulfil a unique healthcare need. Domestic user testimonials were unequivocally positive and as a result, the medical aid has been rolled out nationwide into the NHS.

At Zouch, our highly advanced technical foams are trusted by health professionals across the world. Our foams conform to the shape of the body, providing flexible, comfortable cushioning. And because all of our medical grade materials are hypoallergenic they don’t irritate delicate skin.

Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your requirements and we will work with you to deliver a customised, consultative service, fully focused on what you and your patients need.

As one of Europe’s leading independent foam and adhesive manufacturers we have a loyal base of long-term, high-profile clients in the building trade. Our superior strength polyurethane foam tapes have been used industry-wide to provide high performance spacers and thermal breakers on a variety of residential, commercial and industrial projects. The foam tape has been fitted to thousands of glass, steel and anodized aluminium windows and continues to strengthen its presence in the construction industry.

Our ZOUCHGLAZINGMOUNT 400 is the tape of choice in today's building and construction industry due to its outstanding performance and reliability credentials; from high profile hotels to personal building projects, this tape excels in its field. As well as being able to offer a breathable open cell foam structure that reduces heat transfer and inhibits condensation on fenestration systems, it also offers excellent resistance to oxidation, weather and fungal growth.

ZOUCHGLAZINGMOUNT400 is compatible for structural glazing silicones of the companies Dow Corning, General Electrics, Rhone-Poulenc Industries and Wacker Chemie AG. Test certificates are available on request.

ZOUCHGLAZINGMOUNT 400 is the ideal constituent to help maintain vital spacing in structural glazing systems. The superior quality of the double-sided adhesive foam tape ensures that it can accommodate for stability whilst silicone elements cure. Quick and easy to apply, this foam tape will surpass your expectations.

Our specialist building and construction tapes offer an agile, lightweight, high-performance material for your project, that’s fire, water, UV and temperature resistant too. Get in touch with our expert technical team to talk about your challenge and we will consult with you to help determine the optimum polyurethane foam tape for your project.

The twenty-first Century has seen a growing number of sea routes infringed upon by pirates. The severity of hijacking is also on the increase with a number of cases resulting in death. According to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) piracy attacks are on the increase, a statement that exposes the frightening vulnerability of sea-bordering countries across the world. This type of robbery puts all aspects of sea-borne trade and tourism at risk, making the protection of sea-borders a common interest that has the potential to impact trade on a global scale.

Together with a leading marine barrier protection engineering company, we have developed a foam barrier defence boom that aims to protect vessels and sea-borders without the need to manually police vast expanses of water.

Contoured foam buoys are joined together using thick steel ropes to form an unsurpassable barrier, designed to initiate engine failure and debilitate hijackers before they reach their target vessels. The closed-cell polyethylene foam renders the barriers unsinkable, even when perforated by bullet holes. The application is of increasing interest to all sea-faring trade – from cruise liners to oil tankers.

ZOUCH eFoams’ closed-cell polyethylene foams are amongst the most diverse and highest quality foams available. They are durable, lightweight, have low water absorption rates, are non-corrosive and non-toxic, making them ideal for marine and flotation applications. Several countries across the globe are considering the foam and steel barriers as a pivotal mark of their peripheral marine defence, particularly as insurgent hijackers become increasingly ambitious in their piracy efforts.

Get in touch with our expert team to talk to us about your upcoming design development projects.

Pneumatic tube systems and buoyancy aids have a common flaw when it comes to use within a marine environment. If a pneumatic (air) tube is damaged, suffers abrasion or is punctured, then the system will inevitably deflate or sink and no longer provide adequate protection.

Polyethylene (PE) is one of the most extensively produced plastics. Polyethylene foam is commonly used within a marine environment due to factors that make it an ideal material for floatation devices such as its resistance to fresh and saltwater, floatability, low mass, flexible structures and its durability against impact.

Polyethylene foam is made from recycled polymers and involves the melting of polymer compounds. The structure of polyethylene foam is comprised of small bubbles that are commonly referred to as “closed cells”. A wide range of shapes can be accomplished with closed cell polyethylene foams and it is most commonly produced in large sheets. However, it can be heated into solid foam cores which produces a thermal bond between foam layers. This construction creates incredibly durable foam for the abrasive of marine environments.

Foam filled fenders are reported to absorb 40% more energy than pneumatic fenders.

What are the benefits of using closed cell polyethylene foam?

Absorb impact
Each closed cell is completely enclosed and as they are packed tightly together, they will not compress or settle over time. That means polyethylene foam can absorb impacts without damage, and won’t crush or flatten at point of contact when berthing. They have low corresponding reaction force and unlike pneumatic tube systems which will lose shape and buoyancy with heavy impact.

The rebound effect that can be caused with pneumatic systems is greatly reduced by a foam fenders absorbing energy.

Unsinkable
Due to the separate closed cell structure, PE foam won’t allow water to migrate into the foam as each cell is enclosed. Polyethylene foam doesn’t act like a sponge and will not absorb water, even when the skin is punctured the foam fenders will not sink like pneumatic fenders. Even if the abrasion occurs against the skin of a foam fender, the fender will still maintain shape and continue to float.

Won’t mark a ship’s hull
Foam fenders provide protection to the vessel, as well as the protection to the floatation core concealed within the foam during deployment and recovery. They can be installed fixed or floating, and their skins will not mark a ship exterior.

Durable against wear and tear
Due to their closed cell structure, foam fenders are incredibly durable when faced with the daily marine environment and they are exceptionally resilient to punctures.

Low maintenance 
Polyethylene foam fenders require little maintenance as they don’t have inflation valves to maintain, there is no pressure relief required and they’re easily repaired.

Polyethylene foam fenders usage

PE Foam fenders are most commonly used for:

• Safety boats
• Safety boats on large vessels
• Oil rigs
• Dive boats
• Ship to ship and ship to dock applications
• Docks, wharves and piers

Foam fenders are commonplace in boats that face more physical day-to-day contact and require better durability to withstand their environment. Many large vessels use foam fenders in onboard inflatable boats due to metal platforms and structures, as foam fenders are resilient to punctures, where as pneumatic air systems are easily ruptured and can become flat.

At Zouch, our specialist marine and flotation foams are strong, durable and lightweight, they’re algae and fungus resistant, with low water absorption – ideal for a whole range of buoyancy, flotation and protection products. Our in-house design and development engineers are constantly focused on optimum comfort and cost effectiveness, as well as on reducing environmental impact and vehicle weight.

For even more peace of mind, many of our materials carry the SOLAS approval – the international maritime standard for Safety of Life at Sea in construction, equipment and Operation.

Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your specific application and we will support you from prototype to road-ready product.

The automotive and transport industry is always looking for new ways to improve and innovate design in order to surpass expectations. Foam and adhesive tape bear surprising significance in the construction and finish quality of many motors on the market today. A vehicle’s finish has long been a major selling point when it comes to buying a new car, making component quality and design prowess a load bearing detail that car manufacturer’s cannot afford to avoid.

From pressure sensitive adhesive tapes for bonding of inner and outer tread plates, body side mouldings, roof mouldings and many internal trim applications, we offer a wide range of high bond adhesive tapes that aim to fulfil this market need. Together with our partner company AFTC, we revolutionised the automotive industry with our range of VHB tapes, which took the sector to a new level.

AFTC SilverTape has been optimally produced with the automotive in mind. As a high performance acrylic-based adhesive solution, these next generation tapes which are especially designed for bonding steel, aluminium, and specific kinds of plastics in modern vehicle manufacturing are capable of absorbing the differing thermal expansions of the two different materials. These superior tapes have a closed-cell structure which make them wind and water resistant. As they are 100% acrylic based they will form an almost indestructible bond between the materials. These tapes bond immediately and offer a perfect resistance to the peel and shear loads that can affect a bond. They are very well suited to absorb dynamic loads as they are viscoelastic in nature and can act as a sealant as well as form a permanent tension free bond in addition to being suitable to join many different types of synthetic materials.

Once more, they are quicker and easier to apply; lighter in weight, more aesthetically pleasing and cost effective than the traditional ways of fastening which include using rivets, screws or welding.

With production facilities that have more than 20 years of experience alongside ISO 14001, ISO 9001 and ISO/TS 16949 certification, and the prestigious Volkswagen approval TL 52018 Part E the Fifth Generation is heads above its market opponents.

Not only do we offer a fast and free sample service to get the right products in front of you sooner, we also support Tier 1 and 2 supply chains, from prototype stage to road-ready product, so can support your product development journey from end-to-end. Get in touch to speak to our expert technical team for unbiased advice and support. 

As fossil fuel prices continue to rise, so too does the promise of alternative sources of power. Solar panel production in the UK is on the up, with solar arrays dominating landscapes nationwide – we have developed a range of specialist UV stable tapes designed to be an integral part of solar panel production.

Enthusiasm towards solar arrays has increased as they have a much more localised impact, ensuring less noise and less ground disturbance than wind turbines. The large-scale push towards renewable energy development spurred Zouch Converters to develop a range of highly specialised adhesive foam tapes and films that are designed specifically for the solar panel market. The company's entry into the renewable energies field back in 2011 was part of its on-going commitment to a sustained allegiance to the environment.

The rising cost of fossil fuels has stimulated growth in alternative sources of power. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy has less impact on the environment and ensures a reliable and sustainable alternative. Zouch Converters offer a range of adhesive tapes and films that are utilised within, during and after the solar panel production process. Adhesive tapes are increasingly employed as an alternative to mechanical fastenings as they are secure, quick and easy to use and lighter in weight compared to traditional methods of fixings.

The Zouch range of solar panel tapes boasts:

• double-sided self-adhesive mounting tapes for frame sealing of solar thermal collections
• distance shipping pads coated with a low tack, peelable adhesive on one side, providing a perfect transport protection for delicate surfaces
• double-sided self-adhesive mounting taes for junction boxes underneath solar panels which requires no curing times
• double-sided self-adhesive bumpers made of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) which are used as spacers to give initial fixation and provide a properly sized gap for the sealant, when the solar modules are being bonded onto a base construction by means of a one component or two component liquid sealant

These specialised materials are designed to last the lifetime of the panel and the skilled team are at hand to correlate technical specification to exact application.

We are proud of the steps we are taking to pursue green issues. With a reliable alternative to mechanical fixings we are confident we can reduce your carbon footprint and drastically diminish man hours to further advantage your green cause.

Get in touch with our expert team to discuss how we can help you go green!

ZOUCHkousti acoustic foams are an excellent option for controlling noise and full sound dampening and are particularly popular as noise absorbers alongside generator sets or excavators.

We design and manufacture a complete range of dampers to suit a vast array of applications – from marine to industrial – where heavy machinery operations are the norm. The ZOUCHkousti ranges are designed to suit the exact specifications of the client, cost-effective die-cut gaskets, single-sided acoustic strips or made-to-measure plain sheets facilitate the installation process. These acoustical absorbing foams, predominantly with a polyurethane base are easily cut and installed and are available with a wide variety of protective facings to match the environmental needs of most applications.

With our technical knowledge and experience, our range of acoustic materials will provide you with the answers you need to control sound. These materials offer solutions in a wide range of industries such as domestic appliances, automotive, machine enclosures, boats, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electronics, leisure vehicles and office equipment.

Typical Industry Applications:

• Truck cabin lining
• Panel damping
• Machinery enclosures
• Anechoic chambers
• Engine compartments
• Electrical enclosures
• Noise shields
• Various automotive and marine applications
• Duct lining
• Door panel absorbers
• Acoustic boot lining
• Perimeter strips
• Compressions and generators

Whether your requirements are sheets or rolls; punched components or contoured cuts, with a surface lamination or a special impregnation, we can help. Get in touch with our team of experts to discuss your project requirements.

Zouch Converters’ impregnated expanding foam tapes have been used industry-wide to provide high performance joint fillers and weather seals on a number of residential, commercial and industrial projects. We have seen particularly prominent sales of ZOUCHexpandafoam BG1 with a large proportion of the construction market citing the upscale of Building Regulations as reason for the surge in demand.

ZOUCHexpandafoam BG1 has long relied on its performance and reliability credentials to drive sales - today however, in an increasingly ‘carbon aware’ world, a new age of BG1 consumer is born. With increasing pressure from the Energy Saving Regulation, manufacturers to the building trade are under pressure to turn to new technologies in order to better insulate homes whilst not compromising cost-efficiency. The last few months have seen a decisive change in the energy regulations behind constructing new homes. The consortium of house builders aiming to construct code level 4 homes relying on building material performance rather than renewable energy sources have chosen sites to start work and the minimum standards for Code compliance have been set. The Code is intended to signal the future direction of Building Regulations in relation to home carbon emissions and energy use, providing greater regulatory certainty for the home building industry.

ZOUCHexpandafoam BG1 is the ideal constituent to help seal heat into buildings. Aside from providing a cost-saving on alternative spray foam gap fillers, the building and construction industry is keen to resound in praise for a product that is easy to install and guaranteed to deliver improved energy efficiency as well as a service life of up to 20 years.

Incorporating fire resistant qualities, the versatile ZOUCHexpandafoam BG1 ranges can be widely used to provide simple, quick and effective gap seals to not only accommodate expansion, movement and water-tightness but also provide thermal and acoustic insulation, while still remaining permeable to trapped water and water vapour – so as to ensure that the exchange of air between a building’s interior and exterior is not compromised. Quick and easy-to-apply, the self-adhesive ZOUCHexpandafoam BG1 tapes can be used to seal joints ranging in width from 2mm to 40 mm with a single tape as an all-in-one solution.

The product can accommodate temperature resistance of -30°C to +100°C / 130°C (short term) making it one of the best performing tapes in its class. Once installed, a building is better protected from wind, rain and dust and is well-equipped to accommodate structural movement and fire infringement. The pronounced sales of ZOUCHexpandafoam BG1 act as an indication of the direction home building in the UK is going.

Our specialist building and construction tapes turn gaps into seals, and are the most cost-effective and energy efficient method of insulating a home. Get in touch with our expert technical team to talk through your requirements and we will consult with you to help determine the most effective solution tape for your project.

Increasingly, the automotive industry is turning to adhesives for interior and exterior mouldings, trim and accessories. Where previously rivets and screws would protrude and butt out decorative finishes, the acrylic foam tape supersedes with a homogenous finish and unwavering quality.

Uniform stress distribution over a greater bond area is possibly the most beneficial characteristic acrylic foam tape has to offer the automotive trade. The elimination of rivets and screws means that the risk of stress concentrations and localised failure points are completely eradicated as well as providing a bond with higher overall strength.

There is a common misconception that rivets and screws are stronger and more enduring than adhesives. In actual fact, adhesives outrival mechanical fasteners in many common applications. Acrylic foam tapes in particular maintain the integrity of bonded materials intact, along with decorative or protective coatings making them ideal for automotive finishing.

A long-time advocate of acrylic foam tape bonding, we offer fifth generation, state-of-the-art tapes that are especially designed for the automotive and transportation industry through our partner company AFTC. The AFTC SilverTape AM 94 and 96 series have proven particularly prized in the auto trade for their superior adhesion and performance qualities. Being 100% acrylic based they will form an almost indestructible bond between materials as well as being resistant to UV, ageing and softening agents. These tapes bond immediately and offer perfect resistance to the peel and shear loads that have the capacity to jeopardise a bond. The AM grades are very well suited to absorb dynamic loads as they are viscoelastic, simultaneously able to bond and seal giving a permanent tension free bond as well as providing a watertight seal.

Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your needs and we will work with you to deliver a customised, consultative service, fully focused on your project requirements.

About AFTC UK AFTC manufactures self-adhesive product and system solutions for industry and trade. The continuous development of innovative product solutions is an essential part of the Acrylic Foam Tape Company strategy (AFTC).

AFTC’s product range varies from special adhesive tapes to tapes giving very precise adhesion in a wide variety of applications. The SilverTape product family is used in many diverse applications, particularly in the automotive, marine, aerospace and rail construction industries and in applications in the electronic industries as well as for building works such as structural glazing.

When it comes to protective packaging, more isn’t the answer. It’s of primary importance to review the product by its size, shape, sensitivity and fragility - before deciding on the amount and density of the foam that is required.

Padding is achieved with rigid foam that fits tightly and securely around the product to keep it secure. Single sided adhesive tape is often used to keep the foam fixed in position, too. The key is to ensure that foam isn’t too dense or tightly packed, as any impact to the package will transfer the energy of the shock directly to the product itself. That’s why it’s so important to keep electrical equipment safe from electrostatic discharge (ESD).

What is Electrostatic Discharge?

Electrostatic discharge is the sudden flow of electricity that is created between two electrically charged objects. It’s caused by a buildup of static electricity which can be created by two objects of different materials making contact and causing a shock. Some ESD isn’t seen or heard, so when it comes to sensitive devices, components or equipment, the damage isn’t immediately visible. If the material is an insulator, the charge doesn’t move and is commonly known as static electricity.

How does Zouch eFoam prevent ESD?

Polyethylene foam, commonly known as closed cell foam, is a rigid foam that is shock absorbant, thermally insulated, waterproof and perfect for packaging. Its anti static properties prevent damage from electrostatic charge from impact and vibration.

Our eFoam (closed cell foam) range includes ethylene co-polymer, conductive and static dissipative foams, as well as flame retardant and antibacterial grades, in a range of densities, colours and sizes. Each one is non-toxic, thermally insulating and resistant to UV, moisture and chemicals.

Key factors when considering protective static safe packaging are:

Shock absorbant
Sensitive items such as computer hardware components need to be protected during handling, shipping, and storage. Zouch eFoam minimises friction and the charging of materials to keep the component safe from the build up and discharge of static energy.

Waterproof
Due to the cell structure of closed cell foam, Zouch eFoam is waterproof and keeps the internal product safe from damp and condensation encountered with shipping.

Thermally insulated
Zouch eFoam protects components from temperature conditions and handling.

Other properties of polyethylene foam:

• Cost effective
• Can come in various different die cuts
• Extremely rigid due to its cell structure
• Easily molded and cut into various shapes and sizes
• Can be laminated with pressure sensitive adhesive tapes
• Clean and low shred

At Zouch, when it comes to packaging, protecting and presenting your products, we take a creative approach. Our in-depth understanding of the properties and potential of polyethylene and polyurethane means we can develop almost any design, no matter how complex, into a lightweight, durable, bespoke piece that really performs.

Whatever you’d like to achieve, our expert team can work with you to design and develop products and components, choosing and using the very best materials for the job. We can split, saw, rout, die cut, water-jet cut, butt-weld, laminate, adhere, thermoform or compression mould all of our foams to create even the most complex shapes and sizes, so get in touch about your latest challenge.

The demand for ZOUCHefoam XLPE 30 eaves fillers has been all the more pertinent in these tough economic times. The building and construction industry has of course been the hardest hit, and sheet metal as a form of roofing and cladding is climbing the industrial construction ranks as an economical and durable building material. Unfortunately, as a consequence of the roof’s profile, gaps are created between the metal sheet and purlins.

ZOUCHefoam XLPE 30 chemically cross-linked closed-cell polyethylene foam is the ideal material to shape into a profile of any size, made to measure. Without eaves fillers like this, commercial properties would be exposed to the elements as well as being open invitations to birds, dust and dirt.

ZOUCHefoam XLPE 30 eaves fillers are an efficient way of maintaining the stability of a roof against strong winds. They also allow enough air flow to circulate around the building to avoid the build-up of condensation with lower levels of humidity in the batten cavity.  Manufactured in high quality PE (Expanded Polyethylene), EPDM faced polyethylene and EPDM, our eaves fillers can be made to suit any profile and all applications.

We have been in the business of manufacturing eaves and ridge foam to the UK and beyond for a number of years now. Every project is treated as bespoke with an experienced and knowledgeable member of the team at hand to guide you through the process. Get in touch now to talk though your project requirements.

As energy and cost efficiency prove all the more significant in determining which products to utilise in home-building, we continue to evolve products to tackle the problems at both ends. This time, however, we have excelled in developing a triple threat product - ZOUCHband 3E IDA.

ZOUCHband 3E IDA is a multi-talented self-adhesive foam tape that has the capacity to meet the critical demands of numerous energy saving regulations in one sealing product. ZOUCHband 3E IDA has over 1,000 Pa resistance to driving rain, while still providing a 500% movement accommodation factor, standing up to the strongest rainfall and storm gusts.

This innovative new tape is one of the highest in its calibre, where previously three separate materials were necessary; we have ensured that one stand-alone product is sufficient. There are three layers to the ‘one-stop-shop’ tape. The external material provides driving rain resistance, the central area offers superior acoustic and thermal insulation and the internal area offers absolute air-tightness. The idea being that it saves the window fitter time without compromising quality.

ZOUCHband 3E IDA is a future proof tape that offers an ‘a-value’ of zero, meaning 100% air-tightness gives an absolute seal with dramatically reduced heat loss. This material is a new solution in sealing technology that guarantees energy efficiency as well as cost savings and less labour intensive application than other alternatives.

For a more detailed overview and to get samples of this impressive tape call get in touch to speak to one of our expert team.

With Britain experiencing ‘colder than normal’ winters these past few years, as foam and tape innovators we have reinvented our draught seal range to ensure homeowners are offered better insulation for their homes. Preserving and improving original buildings not only reinvigorates structures, but also ensures that they are fit for purpose for the 21st Century.

Sustainability and carbon efficiency are at the heart of the new build ideology – but where does that leave the homeowner of a 1960s house or a Victorian villa? Refurbishing existing features is a step in the direction of preservation and has a positive impact on our environment to boot. Adapting an old house can be costly, but it needn’t deter the homeowner from initialising the process through reviewing the least costly elements.

Our new ZOUCHseal 100 is a self-adhesive foam tape, characterised by good sealing properties against water, air, sound, heat and cold. The product is an upgrade of its predecessor ZOUCHseal 90 and was developed as a direct response to the surge in demand for draught sealing products of recent years. Up to 20% of all heat loss in buildings is through ventilation and draughts, so windows and doors should be the first port of call. The use of high quality PVC foam sealant tape or EPDM rubber seals in joints dramatically reduces airflow between cavities without compromising the building’s need for ventilation.

Hard economic times mean that more and more people are looking to save money where they can. Draught-proofing is often overlooked - but it’s one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to save energy - and money - in any type of building. Full draught-proofing can save the homeowner over £100 per year.

As innovators of foam, tape and sealing solutions, we are committed to the provision of energy efficiency solutions for a broad width of industries. This time of year sees increased sales of various extrusions for the window and door industry. When all is said and done, responsibility lies with the homeowner to demand these solutions of the trade. Research suggests that if the whole of the UK were to fully draught-proof their homes, as a country we would generate enough energy to heat nearly 400,000 homes.

If you're looking to draught proof your home we can help, get in touch with our team of experts to talk though your particular needs.

With Britain experiencing ‘colder than normal’ winters these past few years, as foam and tape innovators we have reinvented our draught seal range to ensure homeowners are offered better insulation for their homes. Preserving and improving original buildings not only reinvigorates structures, but also ensures that they are fit for purpose for the 21st Century.

Sustainability and carbon efficiency are at the heart of the new build ideology – but where does that leave the homeowner of a 1960s house or a Victorian villa? Refurbishing existing features is a step in the direction of preservation and has a positive impact on our environment to boot. Adapting an old house can be costly, but it needn’t deter the homeowner from initialising the process through reviewing the least costly elements.

Our new ZOUCHseal 100 is a self-adhesive foam tape, characterised by good sealing properties against water, air, sound, heat and cold. The product is an upgrade of its predecessor ZOUCHseal 90 and was developed as a direct response to the surge in demand for draught sealing products of recent years. Up to 20% of all heat loss in buildings is through ventilation and draughts, so windows and doors should be the first port of call. The use of high quality PVC foam sealant tape or EPDM rubber seals in joints dramatically reduces airflow between cavities without compromising the building’s need for ventilation.

Hard economic times mean that more and more people are looking to save money where they can. Draught-proofing is often overlooked - but it’s one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to save energy - and money - in any type of building. Full draught-proofing can save the homeowner over £100 per year.

As innovators of foam, tape and sealing solutions, we are committed to the provision of energy efficiency solutions for a broad width of industries. This time of year sees increased sales of various extrusions for the window and door industry. When all is said and done, responsibility lies with the homeowner to demand these solutions of the trade. Research suggests that if the whole of the UK were to fully draught-proof their homes, as a country we would generate enough energy to heat nearly 400,000 homes.

If you're looking to draught proof your home we can help, get in touch with our team of experts to talk though your particular needs.

The cosmetic industry has boomed in recent years with social influencers such as Kim Kardashian bringing contouring to the forefront of makeup savvy individuals. It’s become a cultural phenomenon amongst millenials and beauty vloggers, and more and more individuals seek the perfect blend for a flawless finish.

In recent years, foam has become considerably more popular within the beauty industry for the application of makeup. Open cell foam technology has seen many advances and whilst it’s cost effective on mass production, it also has a lot of benefits to the user.

What are the benefits of open cell foam for makeup application?

Breathable and soft
Open cell foam allows air to pass through it, meaning that the foam is low density and gives a soft, sponge like appearance. It’s breathable and makes for comfortable application to the skin, unlike makeup brushes which are prone to excess foundation, leave-behind brush hairs and visible strokes.

Moisture absorbent
The nature of open cell foam means that it easily absorbs moisture. Whilst this might not seem like a benefit due to the foam soaking up foundation, in actuality, for a flawless finish most make up artists will dampen a sponge prior to application. The sponge becomes softer and will allow for smoother coverage achieving a more natural effect. Product sits on top of the sponge instead of being soaked into its cells.

Hygienic
Most manufacturers of open cell foam for cosmetic use will ensure that the foam is hypoallergenic and exclusively designed for contact with the skin. Open cell foams can be easily cleaned, are generally non-crumbling and due to the cost effective nature of production, they’re disposable.

Better for application
Open cell foams for cosmetic sponges have increased in popularity with brands due to their flawless finish when contouring and blending. When used dry, it helps to give foundation a matte texture and when used wet, it creates a dewy, fresh effect. The varying shapes and sizes that open cell foams can be formed in, allow for superior application against natural creases and difficult areas around the eyes.

Open cell foam is also used as protection when applying eyelash tints, perms and eyelash extensions. Due to the breathable, hypoallergenic soft foam, protection foam is suitable for all skin types and can be adjusted to every eye shape. It’s lightweight properties ensure that its comfortable when worn and can easily be removed after application.

What are the common uses for open cell foam in the cosmetic industry?

Open cell foam has been used in the cosmetic industry for years but it’s only in the last decade that it's achieved mass popularity. In the 90s, foam applicators were used in lower grade makeup sets but since the advances in open cell foam technology, big brands have started to expand their range into sponges for blending, due to its effortless ability to soften and produce an immaculate finish.

Cosmetic applications:

• Blending sponges
• Foundation sponges
• Fake tan application mitts
• Removal sponges
• Foam puffs
• Sponge wedges
• Exfoliating sponges
• Cosmetic applications
• Applicator wands
• Protection foam for eyelash extensions and tinting

Here at Zouch, our highly advanced technical open cell foams are trusted by health professionals and beauty brands right across the world. They deliver smart, specialist benefits at a competitive price, while we deliver a customised, consultative service, fully focused on what you need – from the most effective materials on the market to a bespoke product created just for you.

Our skin-friendly, hypoallergenic materials are helping take the beauty industry by storm. Our bespoke, problem-solving approach has secured exciting projects with award-winning global brands, unlocking their potential and empowering them to grow creatively and strategically.

Our open cell foams come in grey, white or black as standard, but can be custom made in beige, blue, yellow, green, violet and red. As well as being cut and formed to the shape you desire. We offer environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic, quality foam products to suit all sectors of the cosmetic market. Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your specific application and we will support you from prototype to customer-ready product.

What is foam tape?

At its simplest, foam tape is a tape that is used for situations where two surfaces are uneven or textured. If the area is particularly textured or has considerable irregularities, a thicker foam tape can be used. Foam tapes come in many foam types to cover different substrate requirements and adhesive is added to make the tape single or double-sided.

Foam tapes are available in a range of different sizes and cuts such as sheets, die-cut shapes and slit rolls. Our Zouch range of foam tape is pressure sensitive, easy to apply and clean to use, with no drying time.

Why is foam tape used?

Foam tapes are adaptable and they can provide cushioning, insulation, slip resistance, sound and vibration absorbency, weather proofing and ozone resistance, and so, it can be very beneficial to a range of different industries.

Foam tapes come in various foam ranges, such as soft, medium and firm density foam in open cell or a closed-cell format. The main compounds used are PVC,  Polyurethane, Polyethylene, Neoprene, EPDM  and more. Depending on what your application requirement is, will determine which range you require.

Soft
Soft range foam tape is often used for anti-vibration, lightweight seals, lightweight cushioning and for air and dust seals.

Medium
Medium range foam tape is often used for the reduction of heat transfer, cushioning and sealing, gap filling, waterproof sealing and separator.

Firm
Firm range foam tape is often used for high load bearing applications and for vibration and sound dampening, glass protection, sealing and slip pads where low compression is needed.

What are the key benefits?

• Moisture resistance
• Vibration and sound reduction
• Slip resistance
• Surface protector
• Insulator

What markets/industries is foam tape used in?

Due to the range of different foam and sponge rubber tapes available, there are countless combinations for foam tape when partnered with an adhesive, and as a result, there are endless opportunities for technical applications. The industries that foam tape can be used for are but not limited to are:

• Glass and glazing
• Home insulation
• Construction
• Automotive and Transport
• Packaging and protection
• Roofing

What application is foam tape used for?

Single and double sided foam tapes provide solutions to many different industries in applications such as water resistance, draught sealing, insulation, cushioning and protection, and gap-filling.

Some of the most popular uses of application across the industries are:

• Joint sealing
• Thermal insulation
• Vibration and sound dampening
• Barrier tape
• Cushioning
• Air sealing
• Gap filler (for irregularities such as brickwork or timber)
• Interior spacer for glazing

We’ve developed a high-performance range of self-adhesive tapes made with sponge rubber or technical foam. They’re suitable for a huge range of uses, they have excellent sealing and insulation properties, whilst protecting against water, air, dust, noise and weather damage. We offer soft, medium and firm closed-cell foams and sponge rubbers, with a variety of adhesives, substrates and liners.

Our Zouch foam tape is available as sheets, log rolls, slit rolls, die-cut shapes, gaskets or washers – all designed to be economical, consistent and highly effective components you can rely on in even the most demanding situations.

Whatever your project, our expert team will work closely with you to understand your challenges and advise on the very best product to meet them. Just get in touch and we’ll help you find the best foam tape option for your requirements.

When it comes to the Olympics, a lot must be said for the background work that helps bring sports on this scale to the rest of the world. We were proud to have been involved in a secondary project that has seen their conversions incorporated in the London 2012 Olympics.

We have been providing a full and comprehensive range of material and foam options for controlling noise and full sound dampening for a number of years now. Impressed with our service and hands-on ethic, a major insulation and acoustic floor company turned to Zouch following a tender which saw them win an Olympic bid to supply floor sound and vibration dampening for the 2012 games.

The project involved a material called ZOUCHkousti rebound, a reconstituted tyre crumb rubber bound with polyurethane. ZOUCHkousti rebound gives a softer ‘under foot feel’ and reduces premature wear and tear often experienced as a result of shock, vibration and impact. Irrespective of the final layer to be placed on top of ZOUCHkousti rebound, sounds at the surface are significantly reduced.

Impact sound and thermal insulation are important prerequisites for the legacy buildings of the Olympic environment, particular floors and walk ways that are prone to large footfall or extensive wear. Our custom-designed offering means that Zouch, as a company, are at hand to work with engineers through the complicated design process. We are proud to have contributed a fragment of engineered skill to the 2012 Olympics.

With our technical knowledge and experience we can guarantee a ‘sound’ understanding of your acoustic requirements. Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your next project.

Filtration Foam is Polyurethane based with either a Polyester or Polyether Polyol and created by removing cell membranes from within, through a process known as reticulation. This creates an open, almost net like structure within the foam, allowing for a low flow restriction giving particles the freedom to pass through while dust and other unwanted particles are trapped within the cells of the reticulated foam.

PPI (Pores Per Inch) identifies the number of cells within the Foam. A low count such as PPI 10 therefore means there are less pores within the foam, so cells are larger and open providing a larger space for air particles to pass through. Alternatively, the higher a PPI count the denser the foam becomes meaning less flow and better restriction.

The general purpose for all filtration foams is essentially the same. To filter the particles passing through, such as water or air for example, whilst trapping unwanted particles within the cells of the foam. This can vary based on the application of the foam.

Common uses for filtration foams include:

• Water Filters
• Scrubbers
• Speaker Grills
• Tobacco Filters
• Inkjet Cartridges
• Gas Filters
• Face Masks

Here at Zouch Converters, we have been manufacturing and supplying world class filtration foams to industry leading organisations for over a decade.

Whatever your need, get in touch with the experts here at Zouch and we’ll be sure to filter through all your worries and find a solution to your upcoming project.

Our anti hot-spot tape is an absolute necessity for any serious polytunnel agriculturalist – lessening the degeneration of polytunnel covers by over 50% compared to its PVC counterpart.

With many years of experience manufacturing and supplying the agricultural industry with tapes specifically designed to aid the superior build and function of polytunnels, we have generated a great deal of experience in providing the exact technical specifications needed for horticulturalists to refurbish or build a successful polytunnel for a winning crop!

ZOUCHlen T19/08 Anti Hot-Spot Tape is a distinctive high performance physically cross-linked polyethylene foam tape designed to insulate the polythene cover from the steel frame of the polytunnel. The laminated polyester film on the non-adhesive side allows for quick application without the need to remove a protective covering, designed purely for ease-of-use. This product is also capable of tackling problems where the polyethylene cover is compromised due to abrasion of the steel hoops as well as hot-spots that build up on the steelwork during the summer months.

There are suppliers on the market that offer PVC (poly vinyl chloride) foam which, because of its chloride formulation, provides a substandard finish evidently damaging the polythene cover far earlier than when using ZOUCHlen T19/08. 

With various widths available our Anti Hot Spot tape continues to shine as industry leader. So whether you are modifying an existing polytunnel or building a new one, give one of our team a call to talk through your requirements!

Beautiful Victorian buildings are testament to the legacy of the British Industrial Revolution, steeped in history and permeated with character. However, as the UK becomes increasingly carbon emission aware, their character diminishes through the poorly insulated, draughty windows they house. A legislation introduced to Parliament in December 2010 included the intent to revolutionise the energy efficiency of British properties.

In light of these continued government efforts and our own keen interest in climate change, we are actively evolving our products against an increasingly energy efficient backdrop. One of the first products of its kind, ZOUCHkonekt, a unique humidity foil strip paved the way for things to come from Zouch. This distinctive material seals joints between windows offering complete air-flow control, thus combatting the common problem of window condensation. ZOUCHkonekt offers an effective, durable and easy to install seal that provides an internal airtight seal.

With increasing pressure from the Energy Saving Regulation, manufacturers of windows and doors must strive to evolve new technologies in order to better insulate heat whilst not inducing the irksome dilemma of condensation.

Due to its unique properties, ZOUCHkonekt adapts to the seasonal temperature gradient changes which occur within window joints from inside outwards and from outside inwards. ZOUCHkonekt acts as a humidity migration point, meaning that joints remain dry all year round and the risks of building damage triggered by condensation are substantially lessened.

Suitable for both windows and doors, this unique ZOUCHkonekt strip has won over window manufacturers and installers industry-wide. Be the first to introduce quality assurance to your range and give our team a call!