The new Foamalux Calibre range is manufactured at the firm's County Antrim headquarters using a new type of technology, derived from Brett Martin’s know-how in making polycarbonates used by the building trade.

“The thickness is controlled by a calibration plate, rather than by rollers, and that really controls the flatness,” explained sales director Duncan Smith, who said the aim was to create a product that was as light and flat as possible, but still with a hard surface.

“It prints and routs very well – because of the hard surface we’re getting really good definition when routing,” he said.

Foamalux Calibre is available in four thicknesses: 10mm, 19mm, 24mm and 30mm. Sheets sizes are 1.22m by either 2.4m, 3.05mm or 4.05m.

Smith said he expected Calibre to find favour in the sign and display market as an alternative to cellular foam substrates, high pressure laminates, and also aluminium composites.

“The whole point is to make something as lightweight as possible, yet with hardness. Customers find 1,001 uses for our products that constantly surprise us,” Smith added.

“We’ve seen very good quality visitors at the show so far. Munich is always strong for attracting Eastern European customers.”

The manufacturer has a model of an F1 racing car made from Foamalux Calibre on its booth, to showcase the material’s qualities.

Brett Martin is exhibiting on stand B5-G60 at Fespa.