Co-Polymer (CP)

Forming Temperature

• 350°F - 375°F - Upper Limit on Cast = 335°

Description

• Natural – White. Colors are available.

Shrinkage

• 2% - 3%

Self Adhesive

• Yes

Considerations ~

• All ovens vary in performance. It is recommended that the fabricator establishes a Heating/Time Schedule specific to the thickness and sizes of material being used in their ovens. Always record your successes and failures for future reference.
• This thermoplastic material is commonly used in O&P applications when rigidity with an increased flexibility or crack resistance is required. Use in colder climates.
• Its rigidity is desirable for cost effective lower extremity Orthotic applications and can provide cyclic requirements, energy storage and or return characteristics. Its memory capabilities are reduced when compared to polypropylene and will eventually deform under cyclic applications. Cold climate, spinal and upper extremity Orthotic applications can suit the material’s characteristics.
• Prosthetic applications include sockets and rigid frame retention requirements. Its resistance to cracking can make it desirable for the forces applied when leverage extensions present in prostheses and or orthoses are applied.
• Co-Polymer is vacuum formable at temperatures ranging from 350° F - 400° F and will adhere to itself if adequate forming temperature is achieved. Over or under heating the material can cause failure and must be avoided. In a set state the material will “flash” at stress points which can make its appearance undesirable to your clients. These flash points can be removed using low temperature heat but will most likely reappear once the forces are reapplied.
• Using a non-treated vacuum forming hosiery between layers will help eliminate trapped air bubbles present when a vacuum channel is established prior to forming. In its natural state this material is white and most co-polymers will become transparent once its forming temperature is achieved. There are exceptions so always understand and follow your supplier’s recommendations.
• Pigmented Co-Polymer is available and is often “softer” than a natural product. Sublimination ink transfer papers are available for natural polypropylene and can offer the best of both worlds. These transfer papers stand out better than on most commonly used O&P thermo plastic materials. Following your supplier’s recommendations is critical to your success when processing any particular material.