UHMW
What is UHMW?
UHMW polyethylene is a high crystalline high density polyethylene polymer with an average molecular weight in the 3.1 to 5.0 million range. Because of its high molecular weight, it is categorized as Ultra High Molecular Weight polyethylene.
Products of UHMW polyethylene exhibit an exceptional combination of outstanding properties. It has high abrasion resistance, low coefficient of friction, self-lubrication, non-adherent surface, excellent chemical fatigue and impact resistance, and good noise dampening properties. Its outstanding characteristics include very high resistance to wear and abrasion, and high performance at extremely low temperatures (liquid nitrogen -259 degrees C). UHMW starts to soften and lose its abrasion resistance characteristics around 185 degrees F.
Because UHMW has a relatively high expansion/contraction rate when subjected to temperature changes, it is not recommended for close tolerance applications in these environments.
Properties, Applications and Availabilities for the UHMW Polyethylene Sheet and Rod
| UHMW Properties | UHMW Applications | Availabilities |
|---|---|---|
| High abrasion resistance | Truck bed linings | Rod: .250″ to 6.000″ |
| Self-lubricating | Belt wipers | Sheet: .010″ to 2.000″ thickness |
| Chemical resistant | Timing screws | Tubular bar: from .625″ I.D. to 3.500″ O.D. |
| Non-adherence, no stick | Chain guides | Strip: 0.125″ to 2.000″ thick, 0.500″ to 6.000″ wide |
| Low coefficient of friction | Bumpers | Standard Colors: Natural (white), other colors are available |
| High impact strength | Wear strips | |
| Meets FDA/USDA specs | Sprockets | |
| Zero water absorption | Bearings | |
| Starwheels | ||
| Guide rails | ||
| Hopper/chute linings | ||
| Bushings | ||
| Wear plates |