Food-grade HDPE is widely used for cutting boards, containers and food machinery parts. Ask the supplier for a food-contact certificate for the grade.

Can HDPE be machined accurately?

It machines easily, but it is soft and expands a lot with heat, so tolerances of about ±0.1–0.2 mm (±0.0039–0.0079 inch) are realistic on larger parts.

Not well with ordinary adhesives. HDPE is usually joined by welding (hot-plate or extrusion welding) or with mechanical fasteners.

HDPE plastic: properties, machining and uses

HDPE is a strong, light plastic that resists water and most chemicals. It is easy to machine, weld and fabricate, and food-safe grades are common. It is used for tanks, chute and hopper liners, cutting boards, pipes and machine guards.

Quick facts

Density: About 0.94–0.97 g/cm³ (floats on water)
Melting point: About 125–135 °C
Service temperature: About −50 to +80 °C
Chemical resistance: Excellent against acids, alkalis and water
Moisture absorption: Practically none
Joining: Hot-plate and extrusion welding; does not glue well

Typical properties

Property	Value
Tensile strength	About 20–32 MPa
Hardness	About Shore D 60–70
Friction	Low
UV	Black or UV-stabilised grades for outdoor use

Values are typical for unfilled grades. Grades from different makers differ; ask for the supplier's data sheet when it matters.

HDPE or UHMWPE?

	HDPE	UHMWPE
Wear resistance	Good	Excellent
Impact strength	Good	Very high
Weldability	Easy	Difficult
Typical use	Tanks, boards, fabrication	Wear strips, chute liners, star wheels

Typical uses

Chemical and water tanks
Cutting boards and food-contact parts
Machine guards and covers
Pipes and fittings
Liners for chutes and hoppers

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Questions

Is HDPE food safe?: Food-grade HDPE is widely used for cutting boards, containers and food machinery parts. Ask the supplier for a food-contact certificate for the grade.
Can HDPE be machined accurately?: It machines easily, but it is soft and expands a lot with heat, so tolerances of about ±0.1–0.2 mm (±0.0039–0.0079 inch) are realistic on larger parts.
Can HDPE be glued?: Not well with ordinary adhesives. HDPE is usually joined by welding (hot-plate or extrusion welding) or with mechanical fasteners.

The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 16 October 2026.