Owner Manual

8 | P a g e
Usage and Fabrication Guidelines
outdoor direct installation to concrete or metal surfaces may cause
deflection. Please read the following instructions carefully.
Free Hanging Signs When installing free hanging signs such as aisle markers in
supermarkets, bookstores, and home centers, locate holes 1” or more
from the vertical edge and at least ¾” from the horizontal edge. Use
grommets to prevent wear and stress. The supporting chains should be
installed at a 30 degree to 45 degree angle. (see illustration 8) If
perfectly vertical chains must be installed, use a plastic or aluminum
clip-on “U” channel and position holes as desired. (see illustration 9)
Fastening Ambient temperature should always be taken into consideration when
attempting to fasten Foam to walls, poles, frames, wood and other
plastics. As a thermoplastic, InteFoam is susceptible to expansion or
contraction when there are significant changes in temperature. Dark
colors tend to absorb more heat when exposed to direct sunlight.
When using bolts or screw for mounting, it is recommended to drill
oversized or slotted holes positioned at least 1” from the edges in order
to compensate for this characteristic common to most plastics (see
illustration 10) Grommets or a dab of silicone in the holes will create a
tighter hold.
To allow stress relief from expansion, bolts, and screws should only be
moderately tightened. Apply the coefficient of linear expansion from
Table 4 to the total temperature swing differential to calculate your
specific requirements.
Thread cutting and thread forming screws may be used to mount
lightweight objects to Foam. Use moderate torque pressure to avoid
stripping the threads.