UHMWPE Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene - Holland Plastics Gold Coast
Engineering Plastic

UHMWPE Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene

Wear · Load · Precision machining

±0.1mm

Precision Tolerance

35+ Years

On The Gold Coast

Full Range

Perspex, HDPE & More

Australia-Wide

Fast Delivery

Trade Names: Polystone. UHMWPE is a very rigid material for use in general plant engineering where the unique properties, excellent impact strength, wear and abrasion resistance are required.

UHMWPE's molecular weight is 10–100 times greater than HDPE, giving it extraordinary abrasion resistance — it outperforms steel in many wear applications. Its extremely low coefficient of friction and self-lubricating properties make it ideal for conveyor systems, chute liners, and any application where material needs to slide.

Technical Specifications

Material Type
UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)
Specific Gravity
0.93
Tensile Strength
~40 MPa
Impact Strength
Excellent — no break
Continuous Service Temp
−269°C to 80°C
Water Absorption
0.01%
Coefficient of Friction
Extremely low
Abrasion Resistance
Excellent — superior to HDPE
Chemical Resistance
Excellent
Electrical Insulation
Very Good
FDA Approved
Yes (natural grade)

Quick Facts

  • Over 35 years experience
  • No minimum order
  • Fast turnaround
  • Australia-wide delivery
Get A Free Quote (07) 5564 6744

Applications

Flow promoting liners for silos, bunkers, and chutes
Conveyor components — guides, wear strips, chain pads
Mining — truck tray liners, screen panels
Food processing — cutting boards, guides, FDA components
Marine — dock fenders, pile guards
Parts subject to high impact stresses

Available Sizes

FormSizesColours
Sheet3, 6, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50mm — 3000 x 1500mm or 2000 x 1000mmWhite, Black
Rod20–300mm diameterWhite, Black

Fabrication & Processing

UHMWPE machines well but its extreme toughness means it produces long, stringy chips. Use sharp tools with high positive rake angles and moderate speeds. UHMWPE cannot be solvent bonded or welded easily — mechanical fastening with countersunk bolts is the standard installation method.

CNC routing — excellent for chute liners and wear plates
Drilling — use standard HSS bits with slow feed
Countersinking — essential for flush-mount wear liner installations
Joining — mechanical fasteners only (bolts with countersunk heads)
Note: UHMWPE cannot be glued, welded, or solvent bonded

UHMWPE vs HDPE

PropertyUHMWPEHDPE
Abrasion ResistanceSuperiorGood
Impact StrengthExcellent (no break)Good
Coefficient of FrictionLowerLow
Max Service Temp80°C100°C
WeldabilityPoorGood
Cost$$$

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do UHMWPE wear liners last?+
In typical mining and bulk handling applications, UHMWPE liners last 3–10 times longer than mild steel liners. Actual life depends on the abrasive material, impact loading, and operating temperature. Many installations achieve 5+ years of continuous service.
Can UHMWPE be used in food processing?+
Yes — natural (white) UHMWPE is FDA approved for direct food contact. It is widely used for cutting boards, conveyor guides, and processing surfaces. Its non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth and is easy to clean.
Why can't UHMWPE be welded?+
UHMWPE has such a high molecular weight that it does not flow properly when heated — it degrades before truly melting. This makes conventional plastic welding ineffective. Mechanical fastening with countersunk bolts is the standard joining method for UHMWPE wear liners.
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