A look at the economics of rigid vinyl foam

Manufacturers of PVC extruded parts for the building and construction markets are just beginning to explore PVC solid and foam coextrusion as a way to reduce costs. The cost savings that foaming offers is something that PVC foam core pipe producers have long realized. They have been practicing this technology for the last 20 years. Manufacturers working with PVC foam, however, quickly realize that, as the density of a product is reduced, the physical properties also suffer, especially modulus and toughness. This paper examines the economics of PVC foam coextrusion and compares the costs associated with the various alternatives available to regain some of these properties. Cost comparisons are also made for products made by the free-foam, and Celuka extrusion processes.