UHWM Characteristics
UHMW (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) offers a combination of exceptional properties. This thermoplastic material is tough with superior impact strength. It is corrosion-resistant and exhibits virtually no water absorption. It is also wear-resistant, non-sticking and self-lubricating.
UHMW is an excellent choice for many industrial applications. It reduces noise and vibration, is chemical-resistant and non-toxic and offers excellent mechanical properties even in cryogenic conditions. Characteristics include:
- Non-toxic
- Low coefficient of friction
- Corrosion, abrasion, wear and impact resistant
- Extremely low water absorption
- FDA and USDA approved
Applications for UHMW Thermoplastic
- Chute linings
- Food processing parts
- Chemical tanks
- Conveyor guides
- Wear pads
Contact a Dielectric Manufacturing knowledge expert to discuss the use of UHMW polyethylene for fabrication of your plastic parts. Call 800-367-9122 or email sales@dielectricmfg.com.
UHMW Polyethylene Material Properties
| Property | Metric | units | English | units | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | ||||||
| Density | 931 - 949 | kg/m^3 | 0.034 | lb/in^3 | ||
| Mechanical | ||||||
| Yield Strength | 2.14e7 - 2.76e7 | Pa | 3.1 - 4.0 | ksi | ||
| Tensile Strength | 3.86e7 - 4.83e7 | Pa | 5.6 - 7.01 | ksi | ||
| Elongation | 3.5 -5.25 | % strain | 350 - 525 | % strain | ||
| Hardness (Vickers) | 6.28e7 - 8.14e7 | Pa | 6.4 - 8.3 | HV | ||
| Impact Strength (notched) | 9.52e4 - 1.05e5 | J/m^2 | 45.3 - 50 | ft.lbf/in^2 | ||
| Fracture Toughness | 1.72e6 - 5.16e6 | Pa/m^0.5 | 1.56 - 4.69 | ksi/in^0.5 | ||
| Young's Modulus | 8.94e8 - 9.63e8 | Pa | 0.13 - 0.14 | 10^6 psi | ||
| Thermal | ||||||
| Max Service Temperature | 110 - 130 | °C | 230 -266 | °F | ||
| Melting Temperature | 125 - 138 | °C | 257 - 280 | °F | ||
| Insulator or Conductor | Insulator | Insulator | ||||
| Specific Heat Capability | 1.75e3 - 1.81e3 | J/kg °C | 0.418 - 0.432 | BTU/lb. °F | ||
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | 2.34e-4 - 3.6e-4 | strain/°C | 130 - 200 | µstrain/°F | ||
| Eco | ||||||
| CO2 Footprint | 3.16 - 3.49 | kg/kg | 3.16 - 3.49 | lb/lb | ||
| Recyclable | Yes | Yes |
