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- TECHNICAL DATA SHEEt: Key characteristics and APPLICATIONS

Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE)

General Information:

  • Product Name: Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE)
  • Classification: Thermoplastic polymer
  • Molecular Weight: Typically 3 to 6 million g/mol, but can exceed 10 million g/mol

 

Typical Properties:

  • Density: 0.930 – 0.935 g/cm³
  • Tensile Strength: 20 – 40 MPa
  • Elongation at Break: 200 – 350%
  • Tensile Modulus: 600 – 700 MPa
  • Hardness: Shore D 60-65
  • Coefficient of Friction: Very low, 0.05 – 0.11 (dynamic against steel)
  • Abrasion Resistance: Extremely high
  • Continuous Use Temperature: -150°C to 90°C (-238°F to 194°F)
  • Chemical Resistance: Resistant to most acids, alkalis, and solvents
  • Dielectric Constant (1kHz): 2.3

 

Features and Benefits:

  • Wear Resistance: Among the best of any thermoplastic, even exceeding certain metals.
  • Low Friction: Offers very low resistance, making it suitable for sliding components.
  • Impact Resistance: High capacity to absorb sudden stresses without deformation or breakage.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Can withstand a wide range of chemicals and corrosive environments.
  • FDA Compliant: Suitable for direct food contact applications.
  • Lightweight: Has a low density compared to its strength.

 

Applications:

  • Material Handling: Liners, chutes, and hopper applications.
  • Medical: Used for artificial joints due to its wear resistance.
  • Marine: Dock fenders, ropes for deep-sea applications.
  • Textile: Loom picker components.
  • Paper Processing: Doctor blades, forming tables.
  • Food Processing: Wear plates, guide rails.

 

Processing Methods:

  • Compression Moulding: Common method for creating sheets and profiles.
  • Extrusion: Useful for rods, tubes, and profiles, but may be limited due to the material’s high molecular weight.
  • Machining: Can be machined into precision parts, similar to working with very hardwood.

 

Environmental Impact and Recycling:

  • UHMWPE is recyclable, but post-consumer recycling is relatively limited due to its long-lasting nature and specific recycling needs.
  • Waste or scrap material from processing can be reground and reused.

 

Storage and Handling:

  • Store UHMWPE in a cool, dry environment. It is inert and does not react with most substances.
  • As with all polymers, avoid prolonged exposure to UV light which can degrade the material.

 

Safety Information:

  • In its solid form, UHMWPE poses no specific hazards.
  • During processing, care should be taken to prevent overheating which can result in off-gassing.

Note: This technical data sheet provides a general overview and typical properties of UHMWPE. Actual specifications might differ depending on the manufacturer and specific product grade. For accurate details on a particular product, always consult the manufacturer’s data sheets.

Disclaimer: The information is given “as is” without warranties. Users should conduct their evaluations and tests for specific applications.

Polymer Materials Information and Resources, Thermoplastics Polyolefin Polymer
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Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) Properties
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