UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene)

You’ll hear or see ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW or UHMWPE) referred to by many names, including polyoxymethylene (POM) and acetal. You may also recognize this plastic by one of its trade names, such as Delrin or Acetron. Because it’s stiff and strong, engineering, biomedical, and manufacturing industries typically depend on UHMWPE.

Regardless of what you call UHMW material, there’s no denying this thermoplastic is a flexible, durable, and low-cost solution.

It’s always smart to research a material like ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene before deciding if it’s right for your business. Polymershapes is a company of plastic fabrication experts. Since UHMW is such a versatile material, our company often uses it to provide ideal customer solutions.

Here’s more information about UHMW, its properties, and how companies use this material.

A Tough Thermoplastic

There’s no denying the versatility of UHMWPE. Something that makes this material so versatile is its ability to withstand hotter environments. Acetal has an impressive continuous use temperature range. Because of this high range, UHMWPE can withstand temperatures up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene sheets also machine easily. This machinability lets fabricators mold and shape UHMW material in a variety of ways. If you need complicated parts or ones with tight tolerances, this material is a wise choice.

The Properties of Ultra-High Molecular-Weight Polyethylene

One of UMHW’s many properties is that it’s a low-friction plastic material. Acetal also remains undamaged by moisture, especially in damp or wet areas. Plus, acetal holds up to chemicals such as harsh solvents and abrasive cleaning chemicals.
UHMW is also known for its superior impact resistance. Certain forms of UHMW are up to 15 times more abrasion-resistant than carbon steel.

You’ll find this versatile and durable type of polyethylene in:

• Conveyors
• Gears
• Fishing line
• Vehicle bumpers
• Gaskets
• Pickup truck bed liners
• Seals
• Yacht rigging material
• Valves
• Tubing

Industries Relying on UHMW Material

The properties of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene lend themselves well to a variety of applications. That’s why it’s not surprising that a wide range of industries depend on UHMW.

Several industries relying on this adaptable and impact-resistant thermoplastic include:

Automotive: Many automotive projects rely on UHMW, especially in the production of truck bed liners. Acetal is also a popular material used to manufacture vehicle bumpers. Plus, plastic bumpers are easier and much more affordable to replace than steel ones.

Marine: Manufacturing companies use ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene sheets to produce marine fender panels, rubbing strips, and workboat beltings.

Biomedical: Companies in this industry often use UHMW for spine, hip, and knee implants. This thermoplastic is also a material used to manufacture joint replacements. It’s also often used to make sutures.

Manufacturing: You’ll also find this thermoplastic used to manufacture PVC doors and windows. The temperature resistance of UHMW also helps in the process of softening PVC materials.

What Polymershapes Offers

Polymershapes supplies a wide array of acetal products. You can find ultra-high-molecular weight polyethylene sheets, hexagonal rods, square rods, standard rods, and tubes. We also offer acetal from well-known trade names in the industry, including Acetron.

Our company can work with many different acetal grades, such as copolymer and hyperpolymer. Our selection also includes general-purpose acetal, glass-filled, metal detectable, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-filled, static dissipative, and unfilled options.

To learn more about the potential and versatility of acetal plastic sheets and other shapes, get in touch with Polymershapes today. We offer 70+ years of industry-leading heritage, innovative fabrication technology, and rapid turnaround times.