Not long ago, plastics were considered cheap and unacceptable alternatives to many kinds of metal parts. However, thanks to materials like UHMW-PE, custom plastic gears, sprockets, and other parts, are taking the place of metal components in many Washington industries. Here is information about this material and the many benefits it has to offer your company.
What is UHMW-PE?
UHMW-PE stands for ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. It is a high-performance thermoplastic, but it has properties that are superior to common thermoplastics. Because UHMW has a very high molecular weight, it has a great deal of impact and abrasion resistance. It gets its special properties from its longer polymer chains.
UHMW is not a typical thermoplastic and cannot be injection or blow molded. It takes a special process called compression molding, and it’s sometimes called high-performance polyethylene.
Benefits of UHMW
If you manufactured carbon steel gears and custom plastic gears in Washington made from UHMW, the plastic would last ten times longer than the steel. This gives you an idea of the incredible strength it has. Here are some more of its benefits:
- Resistant to many kinds of corrosive chemicals
- Moisture resistant
- Coefficient of friction is very low
- Does not rust
- Self-lubrication properties
- Non-toxic
- Does not emit dangerous fumes
Food Industry Uses
Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the food industry. It’s commonly used for sprockets that drive flat wire conveyor belts. Custom plastic gears made from high-performance polyethylene are used in these Washington industries also:
- Agriculture
- Mills
- Wastewater treatment
Finding the Best Source for Plastic Sprockets and Gears
When you need tough and durable plastic components, consider specialist companies. They offer a wide range of products and machining services, and they can make custom parts.
