In rigid polyurethane (PU) systems, dimensional stability — that is, the ability to maintain shape, volume, and mechanical properties over time and under variations of temperature, humidity, and moderate load — is a critical factor to ensure performance, durability, and low operating cost. Problems such as excessive variation of expansion, shrinkage, delamination, or deformations can compromise the production chain, generate rework, waste, and increase the final cost of the product or the project.
With our expertise in the development of rigid PU systems, we offer our own laboratories, validation processes, and customized formulations that ensure repeatability, optimized performance, and technical compliance for demanding applications.
What is dimensional stability and why it is essential in rigid PU systems
In rigid systems (foams, panels, blocks, structural fillings), the chemical reaction generates a highly crosslinked polymer with predominantly closed cells. Dimensional stability implies maintaining shape and strength throughout the entire life cycle, without deformations, indentations, or failures.
This aspect is fundamental in thermal insulation, panels for cold rooms, fillings of tanks or pipelines, where movements or instabilities can generate sealing failures, loss of efficiency, and lack of safety.
For purchasing and industrial management decision-makers, dimensional stability represents less rework, greater durability, constant performance, and lower total cost of ownership (TCO).
Which technical factors influence stability and how we act
a) Chemical formulation and cell structure
To promote dimensional stability, we work with precise selection of polyol, isocyanate, catalysts, and additives. We ensure that the cell structure formed is homogeneous, with well-distributed closed cells, optimizing insulation, mechanical strength, and durability.
b) Controlled process and proper cure
Our systems are formulated to avoid shrinkage. We carry out prior tests in a pilot environment and guide the customer regarding proper reactivity, demolding, and final cure. We follow applications in the field when necessary.
How we deliver value through dimensional stability
- Own laboratory and tailor-made development: we carry out tests according to technical and regulatory standards, ensuring national and international standards.
- Real customization: we do not deliver ready-made solutions, but rather systems formulated for each customer, with parameters defined together with the technical teams.
- Complete follow-up: our support includes training, visits, validation tests, and remote support. All to ensure that the system is performing as expected.
- Solutions for critical segments: our systems are present in industrial projects, cold rooms, roof rehabilitation, panels for insulation, and much more.
Homogeneous mixing is essential for the result
It is important to point out that dimensional stability depends on excellent quality of mixing of the components during processing. It is imperative to ensure that the proportion of the components, as well as the molded density, must be strictly obeyed. The temperature conditions associated with each type of application also need to be observed.
With this set of well-adjusted measures, the final product reaches its maximum performance.
About Amino Química
Dimensional stability is an essential characteristic in rigid PU systems. And it is through it that we ensure integrity, safety, and thermal efficiency in high-performance applications. Our technical knowledge, laboratory structure, and close relationship with each customer are what allow us to deliver much more than a product: we deliver consistent results.
Talk to our technical team and find out how to ensure dimensional stability from the first batch!