Extruded polystyrene

[Anonymous]

Hi folks, I'm wondering if anybody can help.
I'm in Australia (Melbourne) and I'm looking for extruded polystyrene (the 2" stuff) but haven't yet been able to find it . Any information would be greatly appreciated
Thanks[:)]

[Anonymous]

Hi, me again. I would also appreciate comments abouts its suitability and use as a base for a portable, sectional layout. Does it drill easily (for wires adn so on?) Thanks

[Fergmiester]

Hello Sue

Foam board is readily available at building supply stores. If this is what you want to use you will need to reinforce it with a frame and cross beams. Some good articles have been written on it and if you're looking for light weight and easy transportation then this is the route to go. Personally I would plant the foam on a plywood backing to give it strength and durability. Then again I believe in the old adage "Clyde Built", which is the Scottish equivalent to the American "Brick [censored]House".

But be advised foam is very MESSy and you will have to have a big vacuum on hand.

If you are modelling "N" scale, the other alternative is a panel door. I've seen this done and is a great method, as the door won't warp. You can even glue the foam to the door. If you go this route I would also suggest that you use either 1/2" or 1" sheets as you can layer and build up the layout as you need it.

Fergie

[Anonymous]

Presuming you are referring to the foam commonly used in the US for exterior insulation during construction? Its rigid but easily drilled, cut, and shaped. Lots of dust though so wear a disposable filter mask.

Here's a link fopr the US stuff. http://www.owenscorning.com/around/insulation/products/propinkrigid.asp

[selector]

Ditto what the Ferg-meister said. It is known as "Styrospan" her in Canada, and as you might expect, readiliy available for use in home construction for insulation onouter walls.

I must say that I have not noticed the 'dusty' effect that duckdogger has mentioned. A sharp exacto knife or construction utility knife (the kind with the blade that breaks off in pieces) held at an angle shallower than 40 deg will do a good job of cutting it. Otherwise, it just scallops and tears. A wire brush does a good job in shaping thereafter.

Yes, it is always messy, and yes you will need an old vacuum or 'Shop-Vac', but it is so much better than the pilled foam found in picnic coolers.

If you can wait for an order, go to your local building supply, and ask them to get you several sheets to cover your layout and to pile up for elevations and grades.

Good luck.

[Grubby]

mmm, nice answers, but I am not sure we have the product (at least in the form you guys do). This sort of foam is not commonly used for insulation in Australia, coolite or fibreglass are the most common. There is a similar product we use in manufacturing roadcases.. in black, but it is well over $100 per sheet..... can someone from Australia advise if this product is available and where? and at what cost?

[Grubby]

I have found the product after lots of searching... www.austech.com.au will link you to a local dealer.... 50mm 2450 x 600 sheets run at about $40 per sheet inc gst

[bgrossman]

The 2" foam is a bit of overkill for the base of a layout, and, as others have pointed out, it may not have long term strength when flat without a good structural support. Try 0.5" for the base on top of wood, unless you're going to cut deeply into it for rivers, lakes, etc. The 2" stuff can be used, too, for elevating track along straight runs when turned on edge. HO cork roadbed fits nicely on it. It is certainly cheaper than the Woodland Scenics risers for this application.

Be sure to use adhesives that are specified for foam or foamboard. Some of the other construction types have organic solvents that attack it. The foam adhesives do hold cork to foam.

Bernie