UHMW

Ultra-High Molecular Weight polyethylene (UHMW) is a high-density plastic, ideal for parts that require extremely high resistance to wear and abrasion. It has the highest impact strength of any thermoplastic and is highly resistant to most corrosive materials. UHMW is self-lubricating and performs well in extraordinarily low temperatures, but begins to soften in higher temperatures. Unlike nylon, it has a very low moisture absorption rate, making it suitable for use in wet environments.

Ultem has a machining cost factor of 0.7 when compared to steel 12L14.

Industries & Applications

  • Bushings
  • Bearings
  • Sprockets

Plastics Gallery

Plastic Cost Comparison

Type General Characteristics Alloy Common Applications Tolerances for a 1/2" Dia. Bar Material Cost Factor Machining Cost Factor
Plastics
Extremely high resistance to wear and abrasion, resistant to most corrosive materials
UHMW
Bushings, Bearings, Sprockets
+0.005-0 5 .7

Common Material Cost Comparison

Type General Characteristics Alloy Common Applications Tolerances for a 1/2" Dia. Bar Material Cost Factor Machining Cost Factor
Steel
Designed for excellent machinability. Case hard only
12L14
Endless commercial products; probably more pounds used in turned products than any other bar stock
Cold drawn
0
1 1
Stainless Steel
Designed for machining, non-magnetic
303
Electronic hardware, automotive, aerospace, medical instruments, and many applications requiring corrosion resistance
Cold finished
+/- .002
1.9 2.7
Brass
Strength, corrosion and wear resistance, and excellent machinability
C35300
Well suited for parts with knurling or threading
+0015 3.5 .07
Aluminum
Designed for machining
2011
Electronic hardware, endless commercial products
Cold finish
+/-.0015
3.8 .6
Titanium
High strength, light weight, good bio-compatibility
Ti-6Al-4VEli
Medical implants
Ground & polished
+/-.002
30.2 6

To review our Machining Materials Guide, please click here.

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