UHMWPE Machining Services
We Provide UHMWPE Machining Services That Fit Your Needs
UHMWPE is know for excellent properties but being tough to machine. With years of experience of UHMW machining, we know how to set up the right tools and machining speed to handle this material cleanly and consistently.
Whether you need prototype or a short production run, we deliver UHMWPE CNC parts with smooth finishing and tight tolerance.- Experience with high-wear, high-impact UHMWPE applications
- CNC milling and turning with tight control on warp and deflection
- Tolerances typically within ±0.1 mm
- In-house support for threading, tapping, and light assembly
- Reliable turnaround and consistent part quality
What is Machining UHMW Polyethylene
UHMWPE, or Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene, is a type of thermoplastic with extremely long polymer chains. It is part of the umbrella of polyethylene, other peers include low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). UHMW has excellent properties such as exceptional toughness, wear resistance, and impact strength. However, the material is tricky to machine compared to other plastics, since UHMWPE tends to deform under heat and pressure
Machined UHMWPE is a solid option when molded parts aren’t suitable, especially for small batch production or components with complex geometries.
UHMWPE Grades We Work With
UHMWPE comes in several different grades, each suited for specific working environments. Here are the UHMWPE grades we commonly machine in-house:
- Virgin UHMWPE: This is the standard, unfilled grade with excellent wear resistance and impact strength. We use it for general-purpose parts that need long-term durability and low friction.
- UV-Stabilized UHMWPE: Designed for outdoor use, this grade resists sunlight degradation. It’s used for machined components exposed to weather or long-term UV exposure.
- Food-grade UHMWPE: Certified for food contact applications. We machine this for clients in the food processing industry, where hygiene and compliance matter. (View other food grade plastics)
- Antistatic UHMWPE: This grade includes conductive additives to reduce static buildup. We use it in electronic handling applications where static discharge could be a problem.
Machined UHMWPE Properties
The following are the most relevant material parameters for UHMW machining; the data shall change based on UHMW grade and the addition of filler.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.93–0.94 g/cm³ |
| Hardness (Shore D) | 62–65 |
| Tensile Strength | ~20–30 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | ~300–600% |
| Coefficient of Friction | 0.10–0.22 |
| Melting Point | ~130–136°C |
| Continuous Use Temperature | -200°C to +80°C |
| Water Absorption (24h) | <0.01% |
Types of UHMWPE Machining We Offer
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Key Benefits of UHMWPE Machining
- UHMW has outstanding wear resistance; it can hold up well in sliding applications and last longer than many other plastics under abrasion.
- UHMW has low frication surface, the naturally slippery surface makes it great for parts that need to move smoothly without adding lubricants.
- The excellent chemical resitance makes UHMW stands up to most acids, bases, and cleaning agents.
- UHMWPE has impact tougthness that can take repeated impacts without cracking or breaking.
- UHMW provide noise and vibration damping, helping to reduce equipment vibration and operating noise.
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Limitations of UHMWPE Machining
- UHMW has poor dimensional stability; it tends to expand under heat and has a high thermal expansion rate. It is tricky to hold very tight tolerances, especially on large parts.
- It has a relatively low melting point (~130°C), so UHMWPE is not suitable for high-heat environments.
- Compared to other engineering plastics, UHMWPE is not structurally rigid and lacks stiffness. It's not ideal when rigidity or load-bearing capacity is critical.
Popular UHMWPE Machined Parts
- Guide rail
- Linder
- Bushing and bearing
- Spacer and insulator
- Bumper
- Seal and gasket
Additonal Options for UHMW Parts
UHMWPE
ULTRA HIGH MOLECULAR WEIGHT POLYETHYLENE
Related UHMWPE Machining Resources
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