Armacell has launched a new line of extruded elastomeric rubber and polyethylene profiles for use in protective packaging, special padding, automotive and custom sealing applications, and other specialized applications. Polyethylene (PE) profiles are Armacell’s latest new capability, with production steadily increasing at the company’s Mebane, NC plant. According to Jim McLean, Sales and Market Manager for Profiles North America, Armacell now has the capability to manufacture foam profiles in a variety of customized shapes, colors, and surface textures. These products are developed using advanced computer-aided simulation of the foaming process. "New EDM [electrical discharge machining] technology allows us to determine the optimal shape of the die for faster, more precise extrusions and prototypes," said McLean. "This, in turn, opens the door for virtually unlimited solutions for our customers." Profiles are currently being manufactured to meet a host of special requirements including ozone resistance, oil resistance, high temperature use, and more. Applications range from co-extruded protective padding for playground equipment (including popular fast food franchise playgrounds such as McDonald’s Play Place) to profiles for furniture edge protection.