Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Washers

Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Washers

Thousands of foam washers are manufactured and supplied each week by Advanced Seals & Gaskets Ltd, with Reticulated Polyurethane (PU) foam washers being one of the many specialist materials we offer. Reticulated foam is also known as Retic foam, Reticulated PU, open-cell PU, ‘Filter foam,’ or Skeletal Foam, due to its distinctive open cellular structure.

Reticulated foams are available in PPI (pores per inch) from 10 to 100. Larger pores (10–30 PPI) allow more air and fluid flow, while smaller pores (80–100 PPI) provide finer filtration and reduced flow. These foams have a mesh-like appearance, evident in coarser grades.

Our Reticulated PU foam is stocked in large blocks or ‘buns’, which are cut into sheets for washer production. We work closely with customers using drawings or measurements to ensure washers are produced to exact specifications. Depending on the size and quantity, washers can be manufactured using presses, bandsaws, or CNC machines, from one-off samples to high-volume batch runs.

Washers can be supplied in a plain finish, laminated to achieve greater thickness, bonded to other materials, or coated with self-adhesives or foils before cutting.

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For information on Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Washers please complete the following quick enquiry or call us on +44(0)1384 252555.






    Characteristics of Reticulated Foam

    • Sheet Sizes: 2m x 1m or 1m x 1m

    • Density: 25 kg/m³

    • Pore Size: 10 PPI – 80 PPI

    • Temperature Range: -30°C to +110°C

    • Colour: Charcoal Grey (marine-safe options in blue)

    • Customisable: Can be cut or pressed into bespoke shapes.

    • Properties: UV and light-resistant, ageing resistant, oil and chemical resistant, reusable

    Download Product Specification Sheet

    What are Reticulated Polyurethane Filter Foam Washers?

    The term “reticulated” refers to a net-like structure, giving the foam its open-cell, mesh-like appearance. Reticulated PU foam washers are flat rings with an Outer Diameter (OD), Inner Diameter (ID), and thickness, cut from sheets or rolls.

    These washers provide:

    • Cushioning and spacing between components

    • Filtration and airflow control

    • Vibration dampening and sound absorption

    Washers can be supplied in plain or self-adhesive backed finishes, and multiple layers of foam can be laminated to create custom thicknesses.

    Why Use Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Washers?

    Reticulated PU foam washers are selected based on grade, PPI, thickness, and application environment.

    • Low PPI washers (10–30 PPI) allow higher airflow and fluid passage, ideal for coarse filtration.

    • High PPI washers (60–80 PPI) provide finer filtration, catching small dust and debris.

    • Compression of the foam alters pore size, affecting filtration efficiency and firmness.

    Unlike standard washers that primarily seal surfaces or distribute pressure, reticulated foam washers are mainly used for filtration, vibration reduction, and airflow management.

    Available Grades of Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Wash

    Advanced Seals & Gaskets Ltd offer a range of reticulated PU foam grades:

    • 10–30 PPI: Large pores for freely flowing air/liquid; catches larger particles; compressible with scouring pad texture

    • 45 PPI: Mid-range; balances airflow with finer particle filtration; maintains controlled flow when compressed

    • 60–80 PPI: High porosity; small pores for fine particle filtration; effective even at lower thicknesses

    Washers can also be manufactured as FR (flame-retardant) grades, conforming to FMVSS302 standards, ideal for demanding environments.

    Benefits of Using Reticulated Filter Foam Washers

    • Lightweight and available in a range of porosities

    • Low odour

    • High resistance to mould and mildew

    • Chemical resistant

    • Tear-resistant and compressible

    • Washable and reusable

    Advantages of Using Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Washers

    Each grade and density offers different levels of filtration efficiency. Reticulated PU foam washers are:

    • Chemical, fuel, and oil resistant

    • Tear and elongation resistant

    • Suitable for industrial, aerospace, automotive, and medical applications

    • Customisable in colour and size for specific requirements, including marine-safe grades

    The open-cell structure of reticulated foam provides unique filtration, airflow, and cushioning properties. Compressed washers adjust breathability and porosity, enhancing filtration and trapping dust, debris, and contaminants.

    Reticulated PU foam washers are also effective for sound absorption and vibration control in aircraft, industrial machinery, household appliances, and fluid management in cosmetic and medical applications.

    Have a Question About Reticulated Polyurethane Foam Washers?

    Please contact us using the form below or by calling us on +44(0)1384 252555.