Have a foam question.

[wilit]

I'm looking for foam with the same consistancy as say a mouse pad. Can this type of foam be easily machined? If so what is it called and where can I get it? Or would it be easier to make some molds and cast it?

Thanks,
Ryan

[skippy]

As far as I know mouse pads (the foamy ones) use a cheap grade Neoprene. A more expensive version of Neoprene is used in diving wetsuits. Neoprene is normally die cut but can also be cut with a vinyl cutter (the heavy duty table top type used to cut the heavy grade reflective vinyl for roadmarking signs, not the cheap see-saw roller type). Regarding machining it, you'd have to be a bit more specific as to want you want to do with it before anyone can answer that. i.e. product how big? what does it have to do (without giving away what exactly you're doing if it's commercially sensitive)? what type of machining: mill, router, lathe? I know PU can be moulded using a foam mix and it's DIYable. (bet that word isn't in the dictionary)
Skippy

[wilit]

I'm looking to make something similar to this:



It's part of a seat pad for a motorcycle. What I was wanting to do was maintain the same shape, but have it say RC51 in the center of it. I'll also be using a Sherline 5400 mill.

[High Seas]

Neat lookin' seat! Sorry can't help on your foam question - but I'll add another, if I may. How about visco-elastic foam? You know - like the Tempur-pediac mattress. Anyone know of a good (available/cheap/etc) source? If you could get it in thin enough form, maybe glue/affix to a firmer machined foam underneath?
cheers - Jim
wireless from s/y Laughing Buddha - BOI, NZ