Developed by DuPont in the 1930s, neoprene foam was the first synthetic rubber compound. Neoprene has widespread industrial applications, including in the automotive, manufacturing and aerospace industries. Whether you need customized gaskets and connectors or just a few flat sheets of foam, chances are there's a neoprene product that meets your needs.

Even though it's mostly used for insulation, neoprene foam comes in a dizzying array of sizes, strengths and shapes. If you're thinking about using neoprene foam to make your products or cushion your machinery, keep the following points in mind:

1. Neoprene foam comes in open- and closed-cell varieties.

2. Neoprene foam products are good for many industrial applications, including wire insulation, gaskets and extrusions.

3. Rolls of neoprene and neoprene foam sheets are available for flooring and other large-scale applications.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide on either open-cell or closed-cell neoprene foam

Like other synthetic foams, neoprene foam comes in two varieties, open- and closed-cell. Because of its low density, open-cell neoprene is flexible, breathable and soft, making it ideal for packaging and securing delicate items. Most neoprene products are made from closed-cell foam, however, which offers good insulation, durability, chemical tolerance and strength.

I recommend: Perfectex Plus makes various products in both varieties, including industrial-strength closed-cell neoprene in a range of thicknesses and styles. American Excelsior Company specializes in flexible open-cell foams suited for diverse commercial and industrial applications including cushioning, packaging, bedding and acoustic insulation.

Use neoprene foam to insulate hoses, wires and other mechanical parts

Whereas open-cell foam is perfect for shipping and packaging, closed-cell foam is perfect for vibration dampening and insulation in industrial machinery. Neoprene's density, washability and resistance to chemicals make it the ideal choice for gaskets, washers, stoppers and other small weight-bearing parts. Some neoprene foam manufacturers also offer custom fabrication for hard-to-find pieces and parts.

I recommend: Shop at US Rubber for an outstanding selection of industrial neoprene foam products. Their inventory includes extrusions, gaskets, vibration dampeners and hydraulic bellows. If you can't find the part you need, send your design to PAC Foam Products--they'll work with you directly to develop your part from scratch.

Choose neoprene foam rolls for general or large-scale applications

If you need large quantities of uncut foam, look for neoprene foam suppliers selling sheets or rolls of their materials. These large patches of foam allow you to cover flat surfaces with neoprene or, if you have a design staff and cutting machines, fabricate your own custom products.

I recommend: Browse the selection of neoprene flooring and table mats at Aesops. These are good for controlling static electricity, insulating sound, and cushioning. The Foam Factory and Foam 'N More sell smaller sheets of closed-cell neoprene foam.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use a product's durometer rating and density to determine whether it's strong enough for your applications. Suppliers of neoprene foam include these ratings with other specifications like thickness and size.