# Foam Sculpting

The material properties of high-density extruded polystyrene foam (aka blue foam) make it ideal for efficiently massing and sculpting model components. Blue foam is:

* Sandable
* High compressive strength
* Rigid

The material can be shaped using hand tools. 

Hot wire cutters, paired with templates, can also be used to efficiently cut complex 3D forms.

Refer to [Foam Sculpting](/protolab/equipment/foam-sculpting.md) under [Techniques](/protolab/techniques.md) for more resources relating to the process, as well as coating and finishing models.

## Hot Wire Foam Cutters

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="About" %}

<figure><img src="/files/0VHROsMD8A0VVf5k3BEH" alt=""><figcaption><p>Image Sources: <a href="https://www.ironcore.com.au/categories.php?cat=2">Left</a></p></figcaption></figure>

A resistive wire is heated to the melting point of blue foam. The foam must be fed at the rate at which it melts. A template is needed to produce smooth, accurate cuts.

#### **Our Machines**

* Ironcore Transformers P/L H43 T1/1579, 4x
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Materials" %}
*Available at the ProtoLAB:*

**High-Density Extruded Polystyrene Foam (EPS)** (aka Blue Foam)

Offcuts are freely available.

If the available offcuts do not fit your purpose, show your design to a technician to discuss your prototyping process and cut a larger sheet down to size if necessary.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Access" %}

#### <mark style="background-color:purple;">INDUCTION REQUIRED</mark>

[**Complete the Induction**](/protolab/equipment/foam-sculpting/hot-wire-foam-cutting-induction.md)&#x20;

Once you pass the [Hot Wire Foam Cutting Induction](/protolab/equipment/foam-sculpting/hot-wire-foam-cutting-induction.md), you may use the hot wire cutters during [Open Hours](/protolab/contact-us.md#open-hours).
{% endtab %}
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