How to Order FIPS

When ordering FIPS, you must specify:

• unit size (1/3, 1/2, 1 or 1.5)
• formulation (soft, medium or semi-rigid)
• packaging preference (bowl or bag pack)

A therapist can determine which size and formulation to order based on the client's individual needs. Our knowledgeable customer service department can also answer your questions.

choosing a UNIT SIZE

The FIPS system comes in 1/3, 1/2, 1 and 1.5 units.

• 1/3 (Bowl Pack only) and 1/2 units are used for small molds such as foot and head rests.
• 1 full unit makes a seat cushion or a back cushion.
• 1.5 unit is adequate for molding a high-back wheelchair.
• 2 full units make a total insert.

CHOOSING the right formulation

A FIPS insert, like SunMate, can be made in varying degrees of softness. FIPS is available in three standard formulations: Soft, Medium and Semi-Rigid.

• The Soft formula offers low-pressure support for sensitive pressure areas, milder deformation needs, or for small, lightweight clients.
• The Medium formula is suitable for clients with body weights up to and including 300 lb. It yields less than the Soft formulation under pressure, providing added support.
• The Semi-Rigid formulation, though rarely used for wheelchair clients, creates a very firm yet lightweight support base. It is used in race car seating to mold a rigid support that provides excellent high-impact energy absorption.

All cushion types are temperature-sensitive. Choose a firmer formulation for hot climates, and a softer formulation for cold climates. If you have special requirements, we can create custom formulations to meet any specifications.

Choose the mixing method that suits you

There are two methods of mixing Foam-In-Place Seating (FIPS). Both techniques produce the same result, but have different advantages.

FIPS Bowl Pack

The Foam-In-Place Seating (FIPS) Bowl Pack consists of three individual bottles, each containing pre-measured chemical ingredients, and each labeled with safety and handling instructions.

To create an insert, the ingredients are poured into a bowl and mixed together with an electric mixer. This activates the foaming process.

An advantage of using the Bowl Pack is that you can see the liquids to check their consistency, insure they are well-mixed, and watch the reaction as it occurs. You can also work with fractions of the ingredients to make smaller molds, or run a quality test.

FIPS Bag Pack

The other mixing option involves a unique, three-compartment, foil-laminate bag. Each ingredient of the FIPS formulation is contained in a separate, sealed-off section of the bag.

To combine and activate the ingredients to be poured for the insert, the separation clips are removed in sequence, and the bag is vigorously shaken. Instructions are conveniently printed on the bag.

An advantage of using the Bag Pack is that no mixing utensils are required, and there is also less waste to clean up. Simply throw the bag away after all the ingredients have reacted. This method is fast, neat, and efficient, with no need to worry about the disposal of leftovers.

Ordering Requirement

For your safety and the safety of the client, you MUST indicate, in writing, that you have received FIPS training or have reviewed the required FIPS instruction materials before DSI will accept orders for FIPS.

After you have attained FIPS certification, read the FIPS Instruction Manual, or watched the FIPS Training DVD, a ”Verification Statement for User/Reseller of Liquid SunMate^® Foam-in-Place Seating" must be signed and sent to DSI. This will indicate to us that you understand the FIPS procedure and its safety precautions. Once we have your Statement on file, you may begin placing orders for Foam-In-Place Seating (FIPS).