UHMW-PE Plastic Molding

UHMW-PE's high molecular weight means it will not melt or flow as a molten liquid. Processing methods are therefore derived from those of powder metal technology. Compression molding is the most common conversion process used with this resin, producing a stronger, more consistent product. Heat and hydraulic pressure are used to fuse the polymer powder inside a mold between large platens. UHMW-PE cannot be transformed and molded by conventional plastic processing techniques (injection molding, blow molding).

Ultra High Molecular Weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) is an engineering thermoplastic with a molecular weight of greater than 3.1 million AMUs (atomic mass units). The high molecular weight enhances a number of important physical properties, not the least of which are outstanding abrasion resistance, high impact strength and a low coefficient of friction. In addition, the polymer has good chemical resistance, excellent sound dampening characteristics, superior dielectric and electrical insulating properties and it doesn’t absorb moisture.

These properties, in combination with ease of machining, make UHMW-PE, a cost-effective material for use in a wide variety of industries and applications. Since UHMW-PE is a chemically inert material that meets FDA and USDA requirements for direct food contact, it is used extensively in the food, beverage, medical and pharmaceutical industries. The non-porous quality of UHMW-PE inhibits the growth of fungus or bacteria. UHMW-PE is also widely utilized in the textile, chemical processing, pulp and paper, mining, maritime, steel, water and sewage treatment, bulk material handling and agriculture industries.