About PVC
All About PVCRigid PVC foam (polyvinyl chloride), also known as Vekaplan, Forex, Vikupor, or Kömacel, is a stiff, dimensionally stable, and chemically resistant plastic that is exceptionally easy to machine. PVC is UV-resistant and does not absorb water, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It is sound- and vibration-absorbing and has a high insulation value. This allows PVC to be used in virtually every industry and for the most diverse applications.
PVC with a soft top layer is widely used in the advertising world: it is lightweight, and thanks to its slight texture, ink adheres very well. Think of interior designs, displays, advertising boards, and exhibition stand materials. PVC with a hard top layer is widely used in the construction sector: due to its lightweight and weather resistance, it is a good alternative to MDF, for example, and it is used in machine construction, refrigeration construction, and profile-shaped glazing.
The material can be processed by Plano Plastics as desired. We are happy to use our knowledge to think along with you and ultimately achieve a perfect end result.
Specifications
| Material | rigid PVC foam (polyvinyl chloride) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Vekaplan SF/S, Forex, Vikupor, Kömacel |
| Versions | Soft top layer (matte) and hard top layer (glossy) |
| Thicknesses | 1 – 19 mm (soft top layer), 1 – 3 mm (hard top layer) |
| Colors | With standard; colored core in various colors |
| UV-resistant | Yes, suitable for indoor and outdoor use |
| Water intake | None |
| Editable | Sawing, milling, drilling, cutting, punching, heat bending, gluing |
| Specific gravity | 0.43 – 0.57 kg/m²/mm |
Properties
- Much lighter than solid PVC sheets
- Easy to process
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Impact-resistant and strong
- Optimal ink adhesion and color fastness (soft top layer)
- Specific gravity 0.43 – 0.57 kg/m²/mm
- Less rigid than solid slabs on large spans
- Not heat resistant
Applications
- Billboards and signage
- Displays and stand materials
- Interior design
- Machine construction and refrigeration construction (hard surface layer)
- Outdoor applications as an alternative to MDF
- Load-bearing structures
- High-temperature environments
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Alternatives for this product
Frequently asked questions about this material
What is the difference between a soft and a hard top layer?
The soft top layer (Vekaplan SF, Forex) has a slightly textured surface to which ink adheres very well: the standard in the advertising world. The hard top layer (Vekaplan S, Kömacel) is smooth and hard and is widely used in construction, for example as an alternative to MDF.
Is PVC suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, PVC is UV-resistant and does not absorb water. This makes it exceptionally well-suited for outdoor advertising and construction applications.
What colors are available?
White is available from stock as standard. In addition, panels with a solid through-colored core are available in various colors; custom colors are available upon request.
Can PVC be printed on?
Yes, especially the soft top layer has optimal ink adhesion and color fastness. That is why this material is a favorite for digitally printed advertising signs and displays.
How heavy is a rigid PVC foam sheet?
PVC rigid foam weighs 0.43 to 0.57 kg per m² per mm of thickness, making it much lighter than solid PVC or MDF. This makes installation and transport easy.
Is rigid PVC foam impact resistant?
Yes, it is impact-resistant and strong for its weight. For very heavy mechanical loads, we recommend solid plastics such as polycarbonate or PE.