UHMW FABRICATION

Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW) is a thermoplastic polymer that has many uses in many industries. It can be molded or extruded into sheets and other shapes, making it ideal for manufacturing inserts, washers, plates, and other pieces used with machinery.

UHMW has excellent resistance to wear and tear, most chemicals, and high temperatures; it does not absorb water or become brittle in extremely low temperatures It's also very lightweight (the same density as water), which makes it ideal for use in a variety of industries including aerospace and automotive. UHMW fabrication has been used for everything from skis to helmets because of its durability under extreme conditions.

It is a thermoplastic polymer, which means it can be melted and reformed. And, a low friction material, which means it has excellent resistance to wear and tear. It also has great abrasion resistance, meaning it can withstand chemicals, heat and cold without sustaining damage.

It's an amazing material!

This amazing material has been used in many applications over the years:

  • In 2009, the International Space Station received a new cargo bay door made from UHMW plastic that was lighter than its previous one--and would not have been possible without this technology!
  • The US Navy uses UHMW for their sonar domes because they need something that can withstand pressure without deforming when submerged underwater (think about how much more pressure there is at sea level compared to being above ground).
  • If you've ever seen an orthopedic boot or knee brace made out of plastic instead of leather or cloth fabric around your injury area--that probably was made using Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene.

Conclusion

The combination of UHMW’s superior strength and toughness with its resistance to wear and tear makes it the ideal material for a variety of applications. From bearings to gears, it is incredibly versatile. In addition to being used in manufacturing processes, it can also be molded into many shapes that are harder to achieve with other materials.