Foam toolbox inserts

[RichM (Rich Maynard)]

I’ve found various threads where members have enquired about cutting foam inserts for toolboxes, but nothing about successfully doing it.

Has anyone done this?

Laser or CNC?

What kind of foam? Where from?

[stefanoromano]

I have tried, and somewhat succeeded, although not perfect

CNC on shadow foad

Huge thanks to @Federico for the massive help even in remote assistance!

[lewisss (Mark Johnson)]

Shadow foam used to give out free samples but are now charging £5 for a sample pack

Shadow Foam Sample.._gsMQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQiAoZDJBhC0ARIsAERP-F8c7Bd2QlVVVfSWvg-G8MG8NbFm44Mnbz1i2aV2WA6QBhjcESkOLvQaAq75EALw_wcB&gbraid=0AAAABCETdrn9sGyYoKGc1T3TN0FU4umTv

[charlesmein]

It is possible to laser cuyt inserts like this. But the foam has to be laser compliant - and you have to cut it in layers and then stick together, also cutting anyting above 5mm thickness and youll get a concave edge and a fair amount of shrinkage.

If youd like to go down the laer avenue you’re welcome to message me and I can show you the ropes. Ive done it many times before!

[iNerdier (Gilbert Townshend)]

I’d like to do this for my lens cases, currently I have the pick-out foam blocks for my pelicans and it never quite works right.

[Riggerz (Darren Rigby)]

Shadow foam is ace. Easy to use with a scapel, however for the price, its very costly solution. I wouldnt use a cnc as a scapel is just fine for the job. It peels aawy in 10mm layer after the first 5mm black layer. It did a great job keeping my photography gear safe in a peli case.

Keep Smiling
D

[stefanoromano]

I have been trying very hard to find a cheaper alternative. I don’t care about the colours or the layering, I just need a cheap sheet of foam reasonably firm.

If anyone has any leads, I would be grateful.

[niallmcgrath]

Temu sell various expanded polyethylene foam sheets for less-eye-watering prices.

https://www.temu.com/uk/tool-box-foam-foam-inserts-are-suitable-for-protective-covers-polyethylene-tool-foam-boards-drawer-liner-foam-tool-box-holders-and-storage-tool--g-601099824661833.html?

https://www.temu.com/uk/a-4pcs-set-of-detachable-foam-suitable-for-foam-inserts-in-boxes---sizes-16-x-12-x-2-inches-and-16-x-12-x-0-4-inches-made-from-high-quality-foam--ideal-for-storing-tools-electronic-fishing-gear-crafts--and-toolboxes-designed-for-easy-cutting--it-offers--shock-absorption-and-protection--compatible--foam--chips-packing-materials-moving-supplies-moving-foam-for-cushioning-bubble-wrap-air-g-601099666265113.html?

There’s also anti-static foam where that matters, but it’s even more expensive.

I’m looking for a cheaper way to cushion my Peli 1610 than the £131.30 Peli charge just for the foam…

I find a finely-serrated bread knife good for big cuts of foams.

Cheers,
Niall

[scythian (Roman Kudryashov)]

floor mats are often sold in bulk for cheap,
made of EVA which is really dense, closed cell but quite hard to cut

[stefanoromano]

That is a really good shout!

and a really good foam for tools

I guess my next case will be all fluo pink inside! hahah