PVC Foam Board
PVC Foam Board Supplier & Manufacturer in China
From Celuka cabinet panels and co-extruded outdoor signage to free foam printing sheets, Shine covers all three board types. Density ranges from 0.35 to 0.80 g/cm³ and thickness from 1 to 40 mm, with DIN 4102 B1/B2 certification and REACH & RoHS compliance. The factory has run 39,000 tons annual capacity across 12 extrusion lines under one ISO 9001 certified roof since 2002.
Home > PVC Foam Board
2002
Year Established
39,000
Tons/Year
60+
Countries
ISO 9001
Compliance
Common Mistakes When Buying PVC Foam Board
Mistake 1: Comparing price without checking density
Two suppliers quote Celuka 18mm. One is 15% cheaper. Usually the difference is density, not generosity. A board with density 0.45 gives screw holding around 400 to 500N. Hinges loosen within six months. At density 0.60, screw holding reaches 900N or more, meeting the QB/T 5883 cabinet-grade standard.
Lower density uses less PVC resin per sheet. That is where the cost difference comes from. Ask for batch density data. If the supplier cannot provide it, the price gap already tells you what you need to know.
Mistake 2: Treating all three board types as interchangeable
Free foam board has no hard skin. Screw holding is poor. It cannot bear structural loads. Someone used it for shelving and the screw holes cracked open within months. Its matte surface is designed for UV printing, not for cabinets. Celuka board has a hard skin. Screw holding meets the 900N standard. CNC edges come out clean. For cabinets and bathroom vanities, this is the right choice. Co-extruded board has a surface layer with concentrated UV stabilizers. It lasts 8 to 10 years outdoors. Using it indoors wastes money. Using it where weather resistance matters is exactly what it is made for.
Confirm the end-use environment before ordering. Do not assume all white plastic boards are the same.
Mistake 3: Assuming higher density is always better
A bathroom cabinet and an exhibition display panel are not built to the same specification. A Celuka board at density 0.60 provides the screw holding strength needed for cabinet hinges and long-term structural use. But using the same board for a signage panel wastes money on performance the application does not require, and its hard surface may need treatment before UV ink can achieve proper adhesion.
A Free Foam board at density 0.45 is better suited for direct printing because its surface accepts UV ink without additional preparation. However, its lower structural strength makes it unsuitable for applications where screws, hinges, or heavy loads are involved.
Density is not a measure of quality by itself. The correct density depends on what the board needs to do. Choose the material based on the application requirements, not simply the highest number on the specification sheet.
Mistake 4: Using indoor board outdoors
Free foam board is for indoor use only. Under sun and rain, it yellows and becomes brittle within one to two years. Celuka board can handle semi-outdoor conditions for about 5 to 7 years, making it the right cost-performance choice for covered areas like storefront signs under awnings. For full outdoor exposure and high-UV regions, only co-extruded board is appropriate. Its surface layer contains concentrated UV stabilizers, giving 8 to 10 years of outdoor life.
Dark-colored boards absorb more solar radiation. In Saudi Arabia, surface temperatures can approach 70°C in summer, near the continuous use limit of PVC. Dark boards used outdoors must have a UV-stabilized surface layer and adequate expansion gaps.
Mistake 5: Laser cutting PVC
PVC is roughly 56% chlorine by weight. At laser cutting temperatures of 800 to 1000°C, it releases hydrogen chloride gas. The gas is hazardous to breathe and aggressively corrodes the machine’s optics, metal rails, and electronics. Most laser equipment manufacturers explicitly state that cutting PVC voids the warranty.
PVC foam board can only be cut mechanically: CNC routing, circular saw, or utility knife. No exceptions.
PVC Foam Board: Definition, Structure, and Common Names
Definition and Basic Structure
PVC foam board is not a single type of board. It is divided into three main categories based on the manufacturing process, and the different types have distinct differences in surface finish, hardness, and application. This lightweight board is made primarily from PVC resin, combined with a blowing agent, stabilizers, and other additives, then formed through an extrusion process. It has a closed-cell foam structure, with each cell surrounded by an independent solid PVC wall, isolated from one another. This structure determines most of its performance characteristics: the closed cells prevent moisture from entering, so the material does not swell from water absorption; a large amount of air is trapped inside, making it far lighter than solid plastic; and because PVC itself has flame-retardant properties, the board self-extinguishes once removed from a flame source.
Common Generic Name
Buyers from different regions may use different terms when searching for the same lightweight rigid PVC material. The UK market often uses “Foamex” as a keyword for searches, the German market frequently sees “Hartschaumplatte,” while “Sintra” and “Forex,” common in the North American market, are actually brand names of PVC foam board products under 3A Composites. These brands are well-known locally and have long been used in advertising displays and industrial applications, gradually becoming habitual terms for some buyers when referring to PVC foam board.
Product Lines
PVC Free Foam Board
The matte surface is the main advantage of free-foaming boards. The microscopic texture provides adhesion for UV ink without primer or corona treatment. What they lack is a hard skin: screws do not hold securely, CNC edges require post-processing. For indoor displays, exhibition boards, screen printing, and photo mounting, applications that need printability and low cost, not structural strength, free Foam is the right choice.
PVC Celuka Foam Board
The Celuka process creates a hard skin (0.1 to 1mm) on both surfaces. Skin and core are the same PVC resin, same formulation. The cut edge appears uniform with no visible boundary. This matters when edges are exposed in finished products. The hard skin enables screw holding ≥900N (at density ≥0.55), clean CNC cuts, and edge banding compatibility. Available in B1 fire rating. For furniture, cabinetry, construction, and CNC-routed signage.
PVC Co-extruded Foam Board
The surface layer contains no foaming agent. density ~1.3 to 1.4 g/cm³, Shore D68, close to solid PVC. UV absorbers and HALS stabilizers are concentrated in the surface layer where sunlight hits, giving Co-extrusion its 8 to 10 year outdoor lifespan. The surface accepts heat transfer wood grain films embedded into the PVC (no adhesive, no delamination). B1 fire rating. For outdoor signage, building facades, and transport interiors.
Technical Specifications
All values are for Shine PVC foam board. Density-dependent properties vary within the stated range.
Physical Properties
| Property | Free Foam | Celuka | Co-extrusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface | No skin, matte micro-texture, Ra 0.5–1.5μm | Hard skin both sides, smooth | Solid PVC surface layer, 0.2–0.8mm |
| Density | 0.35–0.60 g/cm³ | 0.35–0.80 g/cm³ | 0.35–0.80 g/cm³ |
| Thickness range | 1–30mm | 1–40mm | 3–30mm |
| Standard size | 1220×2440 mm, 1560×3050 mm | 1220×2440mm, 915×1830mm, 1560×3050mm, 2050×3050mm | 1220×2440mm, 915×1830mm, 1560×3050mm, 2050×3050mm |
| Surface hardness | Shore D 60 | Shore D 65 | Shore D 68 |
| Surface finish | Matte, Ra 0.5–1.5μm | Smooth (hard skin) | Smooth (solid PVC layer) |
| Edge quality (CNC) | Fuzz, needs sanding | Clean | Clean, harder on tools |
On “rigid PVC foam board”: All three types are rigid sheets. This distinguishes them from flexible PVC film or soft PVC sheet. Within the rigid category, hardness ranges from Shore D 60 (Free Foam, the most flexible of the three) to Shore D 68 (Co-extrusion, approaching solid PVC hardness).
Industry Applications
More industry guides: Printing & Graphics / Specialty & Niche
Construction and Interior Fit-Out
The largest global application segment for PVC foam board (30 to 45% of market). Wall cladding, ceiling panels, partition walls, bathroom fit-outs, exterior facade cladding, concrete formwork.
For indoor applications, the Celuka series is recommended due to its smooth surface, B1 fire rating, and moisture resistance. For exterior facades, the co-extruded type is recommended, as it is UV-stable, has no adhesive layer, and avoids delamination during thermal cycling.
Thickness recommendations: 8 to 12mm for wall cladding and ceilings, 12 to 15mm for partition walls, 8 to 12mm for exterior facades, and 15 to 18mm for concrete formwork.
Signage and Advertising
The second largest application segment (30 to 40% of market). Indoor and outdoor signage, exhibition graphics, point-of-sale displays, 3D lettering, screen-printed posters, and photo framing.
Recommended products include Free Foam for indoor printing, whose matte surface allows for UV ink absorption without a primer; Celuka for CNC engraving of 3D lettering, whose hard surface produces clean finished edges; and Co-extrusion for outdoor signage, whose surface layer is UV-stable and can withstand 8 to 10 years of outdoor exposure.
Typical thicknesses are 3 to 5 mm for indoor printing and 5 to 10 mm for 3D lettering and outdoor signage.
Furniture and Cabinetry
The third largest application segment (15 to 20% of market). Kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, wardrobe panels, office furniture, shelving, table tops (with substrate support).
Recommended Celuka. The hard skin accepts edge banding, paint, and laminate. Screw holding at density ≥0.55 supports hinge hardware. Closed-cell structure eliminates the moisture failure mode that affects MDF in kitchens and bathrooms.
Typical thickness are 15 to 18mm (cabinet boxes and shelves), 5 to 10mm (door panels).
Retail Display and Exhibition
Retail shelving, display fixtures, pop-up shop construction, exhibition stands, visual merchandising elements.
Celuka: permanent installations, hard surface and clean edges for painting/finishing, structural strength for long-term use.
Free Foam: temporary displays, lightweight, low cost, good printability for quick production and flexible replacement.
Thickness: 8 to 12mm for shelves and structural installations; 3 to 5mm for temporary displays and graphic panels.
How to Choose the Right PVC Foam Board
Six decisions, in order. Each narrows the options.
Step 1: Match Application to Product Type
The first decision is which type of PVC foam board to use. This is determined by what you are making, not by spec sheets. Each product type exists because a different set of manufacturing trade-offs produces a different balance of surface quality, mechanical strength, and cost.
| If you are making… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom vanities, kitchen cabinets, wardrobe panels, shelving | Celuka | Hard skin formed by rapid cooling during extrusion provides screw holding (≥900N at 0.55–0.65 g/cm³) and clean CNC edges. B1 fire rating available. Closed-cell structure prevents swelling in humidity above 80%. Does not swell like MDF |
| Indoor signage, exhibition graphics, POS displays, photo mounting, screen printing | Free Foam | Matte surface texture (Ra 0.5–1.5μm) accepts UV ink without primer. The most cost-effective type. Available as thin as 1 mm. Can be cut with a utility knife at 3 mm and below |
| Outdoor signage (8–10 year), building facade cladding, RV interior panels, marine cabinetry (non-SOLAS) | Co-extrusion | UV stabilizers concentrated in the surface layer, not dispersed through the core. Solid PVC surface layer (Shore D 68) fused at the molecular level. No adhesive layer to delaminate. Outdoor life 8–10 years |
| Interior wall cladding, ceiling panels, partition walls | Celuka | Smooth surface ready for painting or lamination. B1 fire rating. Lightweight. Faster installation than fiber cement |
| Retail shelving, display fixtures, pop-up shop construction | Celuka or Free Foam | Celuka for permanent fixtures that hold weight. Free Foam for temporary, cost-sensitive installations. Pop-up shops typically use 3–8 mm Free Foam or Celuka depending on budget |
| Bus and metro interior panels | Celuka | Fire rating mandatory (ECE R118 or equivalent). Anti-vibration design required. Density 0.55–0.65 g/cm³, 10–15 mm. Cost advantage over Co-ex for interior surfaces not exposed to direct UV |
| 3D carved signs, logos, lettering | Celuka | Hard skin produces cleaner cut edges than Free Foam. Single-flute upcut carbide tool recommended. 5–10 mm |
| Concrete formwork | Celuka (high density) | Density ≥0.60 g/cm³. Reusable 20–60 pours depending on density, formulation, and release agent used |
| Cold storage wall lining, reefer truck interior | Celuka | PVC is the waterproof inner face of a composite panel. The main insulation layer is PU or XPS foam. PVC alone does not provide sufficient thermal resistance for cold chain applications |
| Hospital cleanroom walls, lab benches | Celuka or Co-ex | Co-ex preferred where chemical resistance and surface hardness matter more. Seamless hot-air welding prevents bacteria-harboring joints. B1 fire rating mandatory |
| Greenhouse partitions | Co-extrusion | UV-stabilized surface layer. Handles high humidity and direct sun. Outdoor expectations apply: do not apply indoor durability assumptions |
| DIY, model making, craft projects | Free Foam | 3–5 mm. Cut with a utility knife. Acrylic paint adheres well. Do not laser cut: PVC releases HCl gas when heated above 250°C |
Step 2: Select Thickness by Application
Once the product type is set, thickness is chosen by what the board needs to do mechanically. A board that holds a hinged door needs more thickness than a board that hangs on a wall as a printed sign.
Free Foam thickness guide
| Application | Recommended Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UV-printed indoor signage | 3–5 mm | No primer needed on matte surface. White under-base mandatory on dark-colored boards. LED-UV curing, 8–12 W/cm² |
| Screen printing substrates | 3–5 mm | Thickness tolerance ±0.2 mm ensures consistent print pressure across the sheet. 200–300 mesh recommended |
| Exhibition stand panels | 3–5 mm | Lightweight for one-person handling. Can be cut with a utility knife at 3 mm. Density 0.40–0.50 for cost efficiency |
| Photo mounting | 3–5 mm | Matte surface bonds evenly. ASTM D3359 cross-hatch adhesion 5B achievable |
| Partition walls | 3–5 mm | Cut with a utility knife. Acrylic paint adheres well. Edge is smooth enough to handle without sanding. Do not laser cut |
| POP displays (temporary) | 3–5 mm | Short service life. Cost per sheet is the main decision factor |
Celuka thickness guide
| Application | Recommended Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Door panels (cabinet/wardrobe) | 5–10 mm | PUR-bonded to frame. Sand skin with 400-grit before bonding. Density ≥0.50 g/cm³ |
| Cabinet boxes and shelves | 15–18 mm | Density ≥0.55 for screw holding ≥900N. Pre-drill screw holes. PVC edge banding with PUR adhesive |
| Wall cladding (interior) | 8–12 mm | Battens at ≤400 mm spacing. Expansion gaps 3–5 mm/m. Stainless steel screws with pre-drilled holes |
| Ceiling panels | 8–12 mm | Lightweight. B1 fire rating recommended for public buildings. Density 0.45–0.55 keeps weight and cost down |
| Partition walls | 12–15 mm | Single layer acoustic performance approximately STC 25 dB. Double layer with 50 mm cavity and insulation improves performance |
| CNC-routed signs and letters | 5–10 mm | Single-flute O-flute upcut carbide tool, 18,000–24,000 RPM. Compressed air for chip evacuation. 3D carved signs benefit from the hard skin’s edge quality |
| Concrete formwork | 15–18 mm | Density ≥0.60 g/cm³. Reusable 20–60 pours depending on density and release agent. Clean after each use |
| Retail shelving and display fixtures | 8–12 mm | Can be heat-bent at 120–140°C. Accepts PVC/PET lamination and wood-grain heat-transfer film |
| Bathroom vanity body | 15–18 mm | Density 0.55–0.65. Screw holding ≥900N. Pre-drill all screw holes. Leave 5 mm ventilation gap at cabinet base |
| Office furniture | 15–18 mm | B1 fire rating not mandatory for most office applications. Density 0.50–0.60 is typically sufficient |
| Bus and metro interior panels | 10–15 mm | Fire rating mandatory (ECE R118 or equivalent). Anti-vibration design required. Density 0.55–0.65 g/cm³ |
Co-extrusion thickness guide
| Application | Recommended Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor signage (permanent, 8–10 years) | 5–10 mm | Stainless steel fasteners only. Pre-drill oversize holes for thermal movement. UV grade surface layer |
| Building facade cladding | 8–12 mm | Leave 5–8 mm expansion gap every 3 m. Stainless steel fasteners only. Pre-drill holes 1–2 mm larger than screw diameter |
| RV interior panels | 5–10 mm | Lightweight and vibration-resistant. Co-ex surface layer resists scratches from passenger contact. Density 0.50–0.60 g/cm³. ECE R118 compliance where required |
| Marine cabinetry (non-SOLAS only) | 10–18 mm | Salt-spray environment. Co-ex surface provides better chemical resistance. Density 0.55–0.70 g/cm³. Standard Celuka and Co-ex are not IMO certified. For SOLAS vessels, engineering-grade fire-retardant PVC foam core is required |
| High-end furniture panels (no secondary surfacing) | Typically 10–18 mm | Surface is the finished product. No lamination, no painting needed. Wood-grain heat-transfer at 120–140°C fuses pattern into the surface layer. Confirm exact thickness with our sales engineers based on your panel dimensions and load requirements |
| Laboratory benchtops | 10–15 mm | Chemical resistance superior to Celuka. Surface hardness Shore D 68. Pre-drill all mounting holes |
| Greenhouse partitions | 5–10 mm | UV-stabilized surface handles direct sun and high humidity. Outdoor life expectations apply |
Step 3: Select Density for Your Application
Density is the most direct lever on mechanical performance. The range within each product type is achieved by adjusting the compound formulation: more foaming agent produces lower density, less foaming agent produces higher density. Density drives rigidity, screw holding, weight, and material cost simultaneously.
| Density Range | Screw Holding (Celuka) | Typical Applications | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.35–0.45 g/cm³ | – | Temporary displays, exhibition graphics, lightweight signage, one-time event panels | Lowest cost and weight. Lower rigidity. Not for load-bearing applications |
| 0.45–0.50 g/cm³ | ≥500N (QB/T 5883 economy grade) | Indoor signage, exhibition panels, photo mounting, DIY projects | Lower rigidity and screw holding than higher densities. Not for load-bearing applications |
| 0.50–0.55 g/cm³ | ≥700N (QB/T 5883 standard grade) | General furniture, interior wall panels, standard shelving, office furniture, partition walls | Standard balance of cost, weight, and strength. Most furniture applications fall in this range |
| 0.55–0.65 g/cm³ | ≥900N (QB/T 5883 high-density grade) | Bathroom vanities, kitchen cabinets, heavy-use shelving, retail fixtures, concrete formwork | The recommended range for any application involving door hinges or drawer slides |
| 0.65–0.80 g/cm³ | 1,000–1,800N | Reusable concrete formwork, structural sandwich panel cores, marine interior components, high-traffic public-area panels | Maximum strength. Approaching solid PVC properties. Highest material cost. Use only when lower densities have been ruled out by load calculations |
When to specify a higher density: You need stronger screw holding for cabinet doors with heavy hinges. Your shelf spans exceed 600 mm and you need reduced deflection under load. You are using the board as reusable formwork and need more cycles before replacement. The installation is in a high-traffic public area where impact resistance reduces long-term maintenance.
When a lower density is the better choice: Your application is non-structural. The board will be printed, displayed, and replaced within weeks or months.
Step 4: Choose Color for Your Application
Color is the fourth decision because product type, thickness, and density are set first. For most buyers, the answer is white. For those who need something else, three practical factors matter beyond aesthetics: lead time, cost, and how the color behaves in use.
| If you need… | Choose | Lead Time Impact | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard white | White (L* > 92) | None. Always in stock | Base price |
| A standard color, in stock | Black, red, blue, yellow, green, gray | None to minimal. Confirm current inventory before committing to a delivery date | Base price or small premium |
| An exact brand color or uncommon shade | Pantone-matched custom | Standard lead time +7 to 15 days for color matching, lab sample production, and customer approval | Premium. Pigment cost plus extruder changeover cost amortized across the order quantity |
| Consistent color across a large project | Specify single-batch production. Order full project quantity plus cutting waste in one purchase | No additional lead time beyond the base order | No additional cost beyond the base order |
Dark colors and outdoor heat. Dark-colored boards absorb significantly more solar radiation than white boards. Under direct summer sunlight, surface temperature on a black or dark gray board can be 15 to 25°C higher than a white board in the same location. For any outdoor application using dark colors, use co-extruded board with UV-stabilized surface layer, allow for greater thermal expansion in the installation design, and accept that dark colors show surface scratches more visibly than white or light gray because the exposed foam core is always white.
Step 5: Choose Size for Your Application
Sheet size affects material yield during cutting, compatibility with your processing equipment, and container utilization on ocean freight. A size that saves money on the per-sheet price can cost more in wasted offcuts or lost container space.
| Sheet Size (mm) | Sheet Size (ft) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1220 × 2440 | 4′ × 8′ | General purpose. The global industry standard | Fits most CNC beds and flatbed printers. Always in stock. Most cost-effective per sheet. A 20GP container holds approximately 400–600 sheets; a 40HQ holds approximately 900–1,300 sheets. Most buyers start here |
| 915 × 1830 | 3′ × 6′ | Small-format work. Manual handling. Sample and trial orders | Lighter per sheet. One person can handle at thicknesses up to 18 mm. Lower minimum order quantity. Common in some Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern markets |
| 1560 × 3050 | 5′ × 10′ | Large panels. Wall cladding. Oversized signage | Fewer visible joints across large surfaces. Higher material yield when cutting long parts. Confirm your CNC bed and saw table capacity before ordering |
| 2050 × 3050 | 6.7′ × 10′ | Maximum width. Architectural projects. Extra-large signage | Maximum available width from current tooling (2,050 mm). Check container loading logistics. Not all freight forwarders accommodate this size. Open-top or flat-rack containers may be required |
Dimensional tolerances. Length and width tolerance is ±2 mm regardless of sheet size.
Step 6: Confirm Fire Rating and UV Requirements for Your Application
The last two variables are whether the board needs to resist fire and whether it will live outdoors. These are regulated by building codes and driven by physics, not preference. Getting either wrong means the board fails inspection or fails early.
Fire rating
| If your application requires… | Choose | Applicable Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flame-retardant (public buildings, commercial interiors, construction) | Celuka or Co-extrusion | B1 — DIN 4102-1 (schwerentflammbar) | B1 formulations add antimony trioxide and zinc borate to the compound. These work together: one interrupts combustion in the gas phase, the other forms a protective char layer on the surface |
| Normally flammable (indoor signage, temporary displays, residential furniture in non-public areas) | Free Foam | B2 — DIN 4102-1 (normalentflammbar) | PVC itself is self-extinguishing due to its chlorine content. B2 is the baseline. Adequate for most indoor applications where fire codes do not mandate B1 |
| European construction products | Third-party testing required | EN 13501-1 Euroclass | Flame-retardant PVC foam board can achieve Class C-s1,d0 or B-s1,d1 after testing at a notified body. Shine can arrange testing at the buyer’s request. Testing fees are borne by the buyer |
B1 costs more than B2 because flame-retardant additives are not free and their loading level is higher. If your application does not require B1 by code, do not pay for it.
UV and outdoor exposure
| If your application requires… | Choose | Expected Outdoor Life | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor only | Free Foam or Celuka | Not applicable | Indoor boards do not require UV stabilization; standard formulations are sufficient |
| Semi-outdoor (covered walkway, balcony ceiling, awning soffit) or outdoor with moderate exposure (3–5 years) | Celuka, B1, 8–10 mm | 5–7 years | Celuka’s hard skin provides a physical barrier that slows UV penetration. Density 0.55–0.65 g/cm³. Leave expansion gaps of 3–5 mm per meter. Dark colors absorb more heat; account for additional thermal expansion |
| Full outdoor with sustained exposure (8–10 years) | Co-extrusion, UV grade | 8–10 years | UV absorbers (benzotriazole class) and HALS (hindered amine light stabilizers) are concentrated in the co-extruded surface layer. This is the fundamental difference from Celuka: in Celuka, UV stabilizers are dispersed through the full board thickness, and most of the additive sits in the core where sunlight never reaches. In co-extruded board, the stabilizers are placed where they are actually needed, at the surface facing the sun |
| Extreme outdoor (desert sun, tropical UV, high-altitude exposure) | Co-extrusion, UV grade, light color | 5–8 years (accelerated degradation) | All polymer-based materials degrade faster under extreme UV. Light colors reduce surface temperature. Additional surface protection such as painting or film lamination may extend service life |
When Standard Options Are Not Enough
Most orders are filled from these options, some projects need something outside the standard catalog. The following customizations are available, each with its own minimum order quantity and lead time impact.
| Customization | Available Range | MOQ | Lead Time Added |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-standard color (Pantone-matched) | Per Pantone swatch | 2 metric tons | +7 – 15 days |
| Non-standard length | 2,000 – 6,000 mm | 2 metric tons | +10 – 20 days |
| Non-standard width | Up to 2,050 mm | 2 metric tons | +10 – 20 days |
| Non-standard thickness | Any value within 1 – 40 mm (by product type) | 2 metric tons | +7 – 15 days |
| Non-standard density | Customer-specified value within 0.35 – 0.80 g/cm³ (by product type) | 2 metric tons | +10 – 20 days |
| Surface finish — sanded | Both sides, thickness tolerance ±0.2 mm | No additional MOQ | None |
| Surface finish — high gloss | High-gloss surface layer (co-extrusion) | 2 metric tons | +10 – 15 days |
| Surface finish — matte | Free Foam (natural matte) or Celuka (sanded matte) | No additional MOQ | None |
| Lamination — PE protective film | Transparent or blue, single or double side | No additional MOQ | +1 – 2 days |
| Lamination — PET/PVC decorative film | Wood-grain, stone, brushed metal, high-gloss, matte | 2 metric tons | +7 – 15 days |
| Lamination — wood-grain heat-transfer | Wood-grain pattern (co-extrusion recommended) | 2 metric tons | +7 – 15 days |
| Packaging — PE film (standard) | Standard PE film wrap | No additional MOQ | None |
| Packaging — carton | Carton box | No additional MOQ | Quote at inquiry |
| Packaging — pallet | Export pallet + PE stretch wrap + corner protection | No additional MOQ | Quote at inquiry |
| Packaging — wooden crate | Wooden crate enclosure | No additional MOQ | Quote at inquiry |
| Packaging — custom labeling | Customer-specified shipping marks, labels, barcodes | 2 metric tons | +1 – 3 days |
The 2-ton minimum for most custom options is not a pricing strategy. It is the volume needed to cover the fixed cost of reconfiguring a production line. Changing a color means purging the extruder. Changing a thickness means swapping the calibrator. Changing a density means adjusting the formulation and verifying the new compound through in-line monitoring until the process stabilizes. Each of these actions produces transition material that cannot be sold. The minimum order quantity ensures the sellable portion of the run carries these fixed costs at a viable per-sheet figure.
Not Sure Which Density or Fire Rating Fits Your Application?
If you are still weighing trade-offs between cost, strength, and fire rating, our technical team can help you confirm which specification fits your project.
Processing Guide
PVC foam board machines with standard woodworking equipment. No special tooling is required for most operations. The table below summarizes what works, what needs caution, and what must never be done.
CNC Machining and Saw Cutting
| Operation | Suitability | Key Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| CNC routing / engraving | Recommended Celuka and Co-extrusion | Single-flute upcut carbide tool. 18,000–24,000 RPM. Feed 3,500–5,500 mm/min. Depth per pass 3–6mm. Chip load 0.2–0.4mm/tooth. Compressed air chip evacuation mandatory. |
| Saw cutting | All types | 80-tooth carbide-tipped blade (250mm saw). Blade protrusion 3–5mm above sheet surface. Standard panel saw or table saw. |
| Utility knife (thin sheets) | Free Foam ≤3mm only | Score and snap. Not suitable for Celuka (skin too hard) or thicker sheets. |
CNC troubleshooting for common issues:
1.Edge melting / yellowing: Feed rate too slow causes friction heat. Increase feed rate (not decrease). Lower RPM to 12,000–16,000 if needed.
2.Chips welding back into the cut: Tool is dull or two-flute tool trapping chips. Replace with sharp single-flute upcut tool.
3.Dust instead of chips: Chip load too low. The tool is grinding instead of cutting. Increase feed or decrease RPM.
Printing
| Method | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UV printing | Recommended Free Foam best | Free Foam: no primer needed. Matte surface provides mechanical anchor. Resolution ≥720×1,440 dpi. White under-base mandatory on dark boards. LED-UV 8–12 W/cm². ASTM D3359 5B adhesion. |
| UV printing: Celuka | Possible | Confirm surface energy >38 mN/m. May need corona treatment or adhesion promoter depending on ink chemistry. |
| Screen printing | PVC Free Foam Board | Mesh count 200–300. Thickness tolerance ±0.2mm needed for consistent print pressure. |
| Digital / latex printing | Suitable | Standard wide-format printers. Follow ink manufacturer recommendations for PVC substrates. |
Painting and Coating
| Operation | Suitability | Key Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Spray painting | Suitable Celuka and Co-extrusion | Sand with 400-grit → clean with compressed air + isopropyl alcohol → apply plastic primer → water-based acrylic or latex paint only. Thin coats, multiple passes. Full cure: 30 days at 25°C. |
| Brush / roller painting | Suitable | Same preparation. Water-based paints only. |
Do not use oil-based or solvent-based paints. They contain solvents that soften and etch the PVC surface. If you are unsure whether your paint is compatible, test on a sample piece first.
Thermoforming and Bending
| Operation | Suitability | Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Thermoforming | Suitable all types | Celuka: 115–125°C. Co-extrusion: 120–140°C. Heat time: 30 seconds per mm of thickness. Minimum bend radius: 2–3× board thickness. Cooled panel holds shape with no spring-back. |
| Cold bending | Not recommended | PVC foam board is rigid at room temperature. Forced bending without heat will crack or stress-whiten the board. |
Edge Banding and Lamination
| Operation | Suitability | Process |
|---|---|---|
| PUR edge banding | Recommended Celuka | Sand the Celuka skin lightly with 400-grit to create mechanical anchor points. Apply PUR adhesive at 120–140°C. Bonding pressure 0.3–0.5 MPa. Press time 10–30 seconds. Full moisture cure: 3–7 days at >15°C, >40% RH. |
| PVC edge banding tape | Recommended | Matches substrate thermal expansion rate. PVC edge banding recommended over ABS for bathroom and kitchen applications. |
| Lamination (decorative films) | Suitable | PET, PVC, and wood-grain transfer films. Celuka and Co-extrusion surfaces recommended. Smooth surface ensures uniform adhesion. |
Bonding and Fastening
| Method | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PVC solvent cement (THF-based) | Suitable | Chemically welds PVC surfaces. Lap shear strength 6–8 MPa |
| Cyanoacrylate (super glue) | Suitable small areas | Fast bond. Limited gap-filling |
| Methyl methacrylate adhesive (e.g., Plexus MA300) | For structural use | Bond strength exceeds PVC substrate strength |
| Mechanical fasteners (screws) | Suitable | Pre-drill holes for screws near edges. Stainless steel recommended for outdoor and humid applications. Screw diameter: 3–4mm for panels up to 12mm, 4–5mm for thicker panels |
Processing Restrictions
| Operation | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Laser cutting | NEVER | PVC contains approximately 56% chlorine by weight. Laser cutting at 800–1,000°C releases hydrogen chloride gas (HCl), which is toxic to operators and corrosive to laser optics and equipment. Edge burns and chars rather than cutting cleanly. This restriction applies to all PVC products, regardless of type or thickness |
| Two-flute CNC tools | Do not use | Two-flute tools trap chips in the second flute. Trapped chips weld back into the cut under friction heat, causing melting, rough edges, and tool damage. Single-flute upcut tools only |
| Oil-based or solvent-based paints | Do not use | Solvents attack the PVC surface, causing softening, etching, and potentially long-term degradation. Water-based acrylic and latex paints only |
| Cold bending without heat | Will crack | PVC foam board is rigid at room temperature. Heat to forming temperature before bending |
Processing Guidance Notice: The machining parameters, bonding procedures, and processing recommendations in this guide come from Shine’s internal testing. They are starting points for process development. Actual results depend on your equipment, tooling quality, shop environment, and operator experience. Test on samples before production runs.
Shine Manufacturing Facility
What affects the price of PVC foam board
| Factor | What you pay | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Density | Low density (0.35–0.45) costs the least. High density (0.60–0.80) costs the most. | More PVC resin per sheet. Density is the single biggest cost driver. |
| Thickness | 3–5 mm is priced steady. Above 15 mm, the price per sheet climbs faster. | Thicker board runs slower on the line. Less output per shift. |
| Board type | Free foam is the most affordable. Celuka is mid-range. Co-extruded costs the most. | Extra processing steps and raw material costs. Co-extruded runs two extruders at once. |
| Fire rating | B2 is standard pricing. B1 adds cost. | B1 requires more flame retardant in the formulation. |
| Colour | White is the baseline. Black and custom colours cost more. | White runs continuously. Colour changes mean stopping the line, cleaning the extruder, and running a new batch. |
| Size | Standard sizes (1220×2440, 1560×3050, 2050×3050) are priced at the base rate. Custom dimensions add cost. | Standard sizes run in volume. Custom sizes need a separate production setup. |
| Packaging | ISO 9001 is included. SGS, UL 94, EN 13501-1, and other third-party tests are extra. | Testing fees go directly to the accredited lab. Buyer covers the cost. |
| Packaging | PE film wrapping is included. Pallet, carton, or wooden crate packaging is extra. | Materials and labour for upgraded packaging are passed through at cost. |
Quality Standards & Compliance
All three PVC foam board types are manufactured under Shine’s ISO 9001-certified quality management system. Density is controlled to ±0.03 g/cm³ batch-to-batch. Thickness tolerance: ±0.2mm. ROHS and REACH compliant, calcium-zinc stabilizer system, no lead-salt stabilizers.
Fire ratings:
Celuka and Co-extrusion: B1 (DIN 4102-1, flame-retardant). Free Foam: B2 (normally flammable, self-extinguishing). EN 13501-1 Euroclass C-s1,d0 or B-s1,d1 achievable, independent notified body testing required.
Third-party testing:
SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV testing available on request at the buyer’s expense. UL 94 and CE compliance assessment available.
Ordering, Samples and Delivery
MOQ and Lead Times
| Order Type | MOQ | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard products (stock specifications) | 2 tons minimum | 7–14 days |
| Express orders | 2 tons minimum | 3–5 days |
| Custom specifications (non-standard color, density, thickness, size) | 2 tons minimum | 14–60 days depending on complexity |
MOQ is by weight, not by sheet count. The actual number of sheets per ton depends on thickness and density. A 3mm Free Foam sheet at density 0.45 yields significantly more sheets per ton than an 18mm Celuka sheet at density 0.65.
Payment Terms
T/T 30% advance, 70% before shipment. Alipay accepted. Production begins upon receipt of the deposit. The proforma invoice includes a price validity period. If raw material costs change significantly between quotation and order, we will inform you before proceeding.
Packaging Options
| Level | Configuration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| L1: PE Film | PE film wrap | Included in product price | Short-haul trucking, customer pickup |
| L2: Cartons | Corrugated cartons | Buyer’s cost | Courier, air freight, samples |
| L3: Palletized | Pallet + PE stretch wrap + edge protectors + moisture barrier | Buyer’s cost | Standard ocean freight |
| L4: Wooden Crates | Full wooden crate | Buyer’s cost | Long-haul, multiple transshipments, high-value orders, extreme climates |
Shipping and Logistics
FOB, CIF, and CFR terms available. Primary ports: Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Qingdao. Approximate ocean transit times: US West Coast 15 to 25 days, Europe 25 to 35 days, Middle East 15 to 25 days, Africa 25 to 40 days, Southeast Asia 7 to 15 days. Air freight available for urgent orders. Cost quoted per shipment.
Sample Policy
Standard specification samples: 3 to 5 days to prepare. Custom specification samples: 5 to 10 days. International courier: 3 to 6 days depending on destination. A sample pack can include multiple specifications such as different thicknesses, densities, or colors for side-by-side comparison. Samples allow you to test machining behavior, print adhesion, and surface quality on your own equipment before committing to a full order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about Shine products and services.
Is “expanded PVC Board” the same as PVC foam board?
What is the difference between Celuka and Free Foam?
What does “closed-cell” mean, and why does it matter?
What is “high-density PVC foam board”? Is it a separate product?
What does “rigid PVC foam board” mean?
Can PVC foam board be used outdoors?
Does PVC foam board contain formaldehyde?
The product comparisons, technical specifications, processing parameters, and application recommendations on this page are based on Shine’s current product range and internal testing data. Actual product performance varies by density, thickness, color, formulation, and operating conditions. The side-by-side comparison represents general product characteristics. Confirm specific performance values for your chosen specification before ordering. For project-specific evaluation, contact our team.
Take the Next Step
Three ways to move forward. Choose based on where you are in your sourcing process.