At what temperature is polyethylene foam heated to form over a positive model?

Polyethylene foam is typically heated to a specific temperature range when being formed over a positive model to ensure that it becomes malleable enough to conform closely to the desired shape. The range of 250-300°F is appropriate for this process. At this temperature, the foam becomes soft and can be easily shaped without damaging its structural integrity.

Heating the foam to this range allows the material to maintain its properties while ensuring that it can be formed effectively. If the temperature were too low, the foam might not become pliable enough for proper shaping, leading to inadequate fitting or adaptation. On the other hand, heating above this range could risk damaging the foam or compromising its performance in applications such as orthotics or footwear.

This temperature range is often a standard practice in the field, making it a critical knowledge point for those trained in pedorthics and related disciplines.