Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE, UHMW) is a subset of the thermoplastic polyethylene. Also known as high-modulus polyethylene, (HMPE), or high-performance polyethylene (HPPE), it has extremely long chains, with a molecular mass usually between 3.5 and 7.5 million amu. The longer chain serves to transfer load more effectively to the polymer backbone by strengthening intermolecular interactions. This results in a very tough material, with the highest impact strength of any thermoplastic presently made.
A subset of the thermoplastic polyethylene, UHMW (aka UHMW-PE) is characterized as one of the miracle polymers of the 20th century, UHMW’s incredible durability and versatility make it a favorite among engineers and designers in nearly every industry worldwide. The key is UHMW’s incredibly long molecular chain, which give UHMW a host of exceptional attributes such as high abrasion resistance, low coefficient of friction and unparalleled impact resistance, even in cryogenic environments. Ideal for use in applications where wear and friction play a part. Industries such as material handling, food processing, automotive, railroad, agriculture, medical, printing and packaging all have numerous applications where UHMW coatings and materials can provide benefits and enhance efficiency and productivity.
Natural and reprocessed grades are still the most common. UHMW modified to meet particular application requirements through formulations with additives and fillers create special and premium grades with the enhanced desired property. Following are a few of the most common premium grades: Glass Filled, Cross-linked, UV Stabilized, Static Control: Anti-Static, MoS2 filled, Oil filled, Flame retardant and Heat Stabilized.
PROPERTIES
NOTE: The property values presented above are typical values intended for reference and comparison purposes only. They should NOT be used as a basis for design specifications or quality control. Contact us for manufacturers’ complete material property datasheets. All values at 73°F (23°C) unless otherwise noted.
APPLICATIONS:Wear strips, guide rails;Bushings, bearings, rollers;Pumps;Scrapers;Chutes, hoppers;Liners.
ADVANTAGES:Corrosion and wear resistant;Vibration resistant;Easily machinable;High chemical resistance;Low coefficient of friction;Light weight;Generally FDA and USDA compliant;Good abrasion resistance;Moisture resistant;Good electrical resistance.
Post time: Jun-10-2020