UHMW, also known as UHMW-PE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic material, with a continuous use temperature range of up to 180° F (82° C).
Benefits of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW)
Superior abrasion resistance
Low coefficient of friction
Good corrosion resistance
Excellent impact strength
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Suppliers / Brands
Common Applications
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Bearings & Bushings
- Building & Construction
- Chemical Processing
- Food & Beverage Preparation/Processing
- Forestry and Lumber Plastics
- Gaskets & Seals
- Gears
- Heavy Equipment
- Hoppers & Bed Liners
- Machine Shops
- Milling & Mining
- Oil & Gas
- Orthotics
- Outrigger Pads
- Packaging & Conveying Equipment
- Playground Equipment
- Prototyping & Tooling
- Recreational Vehicles
- Semiconductors & Electronics
- Sheaves
- Sporting Goods
- Valves & Fittings
- Wear Strips
Physical Properties
Units | ASTM Test | Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene | |
---|---|---|---|
Tensile strength @ break @ 73°F | psi | D638 | 3,550 – 5,800 |
Flexural modulus @ 73°F | psi | D790 | 98,300 – 222,000 |
Izod impact (notched) | ft-lbs/in of notch | D256 | 1.0 – 16 |
Water absorption @ 73°F – 24 hours | % | D570 | <0.01 |
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) | (in/in F) | D696 | 6.8E-5 to 7.8E-5 |
Coefficient of friction | D1894 | 0.08 – 0.2 | |
Deflection Temperature Under Load @ 264 psi | °F | D648 | 154 – 173 |
* Technical Data is provided courtesy of UL Prospector (www.ulprospector.com) and IAPD (www.IAPD.org).
Data is to be considered representative and is provided for guidance only. All product performance must be verified by the user under actual application conditions.