Performix Coatings is a leading provider of high-performance coatings that protect carbon-loaded polyurethane foam absorbers. These wedge-shaped or pyramidal foam components are designed to absorb RF and microwaves and reduce noise and vibration. Our specialized coatings help protect foam absorbers from impact, breakage, puncture, abrasion, UV, and moisture, while also preventing any F.O.D. (foreign objects and debris). These unique coatings are also available in standard as well as custom colors and are also available with fire-retardant properties to meet your specific requirements. Combined, we can improve the look, performance, and longevity of your paramedial absorbers.
Learn more about the role absorbers play in creating anechoic environments, how specialized coatings add protection, and some ways in which coated absorbers are used.
How do Foam Absorbers and Coatings Work?
Sound, RF, and microwaves are everywhere, even if humans cannot detect them, and they can interfere with signal transmission in electronics and antennas, and cause echoes or degraded acoustics. These challenges make it difficult to reliably test devices for soundproofing performance, signal integrity, and compliance with EM emissions requirements.
Several materials can be used to dampen vibrations and absorb these sounds, RF, and microwaves, including open-cell or closed-cell polyurethane foams that are formed into wedge or pyramidal shapes. The cells in the foam trap waves so it can be converted into low-level heat, and the pyramid shape of each unit increases surface area for better absorption.
Specialized coatings, like our vinyl-based F-974 Muraculon Absorber Coat, are often applied to foam absorbers to preserve the structural integrity of foam absorbers without interfering with the foams’ ability to function effectively as an absorber. This protective coating will help the foam perform as intended and extend its service life.
What is an Anechoic Chamber?
Testing facilities build dedicated testing rooms outfitted with foam absorbers to eliminate wave reflections and create a completely silent and “still” testing environment. Known as anechoic chambers, these are closed, controlled rooms with foam absorbers attached to some or all wall and ceiling surfaces. The size, shape, and configuration of the absorbers depend on the type of devices being tested and the type of waves that are targeted. As a result, test facilities can operate more efficiently, and test data is more reliable.
Benefits of Coatings for Anechoic Foam Components
Coating foam absorbers provides several benefits, including:
- Durability. Coating will protect the piece of foam as a whole from abrasion, puncture, and breakage.
- Moisture resistance. Coating can prevent the foam from absorbing ambient moisture.
- Fire resistance. Coatings enhance fire retardancy, which is especially important in industrial or mixed-use environments.
- Cleanliness. Coatings prevent F.O.D. from coming from the foam absorbers while sealing the surface for ease of cleaning.
- Color. Whether one of our standard colors or a custom color matches your customers’ preferences.
- Easier handling and installation. Flexible polymer coatings allow the foam to temporarily flex or bend as needed without deforming or breaking.
Applications for Anechoic Foam Absorbers and Coatings
Anechoic absorbers are used in a variety of applications to absorb noise and RF waves. While they are widely used in controlled anechoic chambers, there are additional applications for them inside and outside of these rooms. Examples include:
- Reducing cabin noise in vehicles and aircraft.
- Minimizing acoustic interference for consumer devices.
- Controlled testing environments for medical devices.
- Testing antenna performance for cellular, wireless, and satellite applications.
- Absorbing EM waves to reduce detectability on submarines and ships.
- Blocking and containing EMI in electronic devices.
- Validating advanced driver-assistance technology (i.e., radar, LIDAR).
Contact Performix Coatings for Anechoic Foam Applications
Since 1972, Performix Coatings has provided top-quality protective coatings and adhesives used in the automotive, medical, manufacturing, and other industries worldwide. In addition to our standard product line, our team also provides toll and contract manufacturing services, and we can develop custom formulations to meet specific application requirements.
Contact us today to discuss your application, or request a quote for pricing details.