UHMWPE is a polyethylene with extremely long molecules that make it very tough and wear resistant, with low friction and almost no water absorption. It outlasts steel in many sliding and abrasive jobs, so it is used for chute and hopper liners, conveyor guides, wear strips, chain guides, star wheels and food-handling parts. It is soft and moves with heat, so it is not used for precise or hot parts.
Quick facts
- Type
- Thermoplastic (polyethylene, PE 1000)
- Density
- About 0.93–0.94 g/cm³ (floats on water)
- Service temperature
- About -200 to +80 °C
- Friction
- Low, self-lubricating
- Wear resistance
- Excellent, also against abrasion
- Water absorption
- Nearly zero
Typical properties
| Property | Typical value |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | About 20–40 MPa |
| Hardness | About 60–65 Shore D |
| Thermal expansion | High, about 10× steel |
| Impact strength | Very high, does not break in notched tests |
Values are typical for unfilled grades. Grades from different makers differ; ask for the supplier's data sheet when it matters.
Machining tips
- Sharp tools with large rake; it cuts like hard wax
- Allow for large thermal expansion in long parts and liners
- Slotted holes let liners move with temperature
- Cannot be glued easily; fix mechanically
- Welding is possible with special equipment
Typical uses
- Chute, hopper and truck body liners
- Conveyor wear strips and chain guides
- Star wheels and guides in bottling lines
- Cutting boards and food-handling parts
- Dock fenders and marine parts
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Questions
- UHMWPE or HDPE?
- Both are polyethylene, but UHMWPE has much longer molecules, so it wears far better and is tougher. HDPE is cheaper for tanks, sheets and low-wear parts.
- UHMWPE or nylon for wear strips?
- UHMWPE has lower friction, takes impact better and does not absorb water. Nylon is stiffer and holds size better under load and heat.
- Why do UHMWPE liners need slotted holes?
- UHMWPE expands about ten times more than steel with temperature. Slotted holes let the liner grow and shrink without buckling or tearing out.
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 22 October 2026.