What is UHMWPE and UHMWPE pipe

2024-03-13 14:22


What is UHMWPE and UHMWPE pipe?

 

Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a type of thermoplastic polymer characterized by an extremely high molecular weight. It is composed of long chains of polyethylene molecules, which give it exceptional strength and durability. UHMWPE is known for its outstanding abrasion resistance, low coefficient of friction, chemical resistance, and impact strength. It is commonly used in various applications such as medical implants (e.g., hip and knee replacements), industrial components (e.g., bearings, gears, and conveyor liners), armor plating, ropes, and sports equipment due to its unique combination of properties.

UHMWPE, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene(PE-UHMW), is defined by ISO21304-1:2019 as polyethylene materials having a melt mass-flow rate (MFR) of less than 0.1 g/10min, measured at 190and 21.6 kg load.

 

The types of PE-UHMW are differentiated from each other by a classification system based on appropriate levels of the designatory properties:

a) viscosity number

b) elongational stress

c) charpy double-notched impact strength.

and on information about the intended application and/or method of processing, important properties, additives, colorants, fillers and reinforcing materials.

 

When in commercial application, melt mass-flow rate is not a parameter that has direct relationship on performance.

Some alternative names or abbreviations for UHMWPE:

HMWPE: high molecular weight polyethylene

UHMW: ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene

PE-UHMW

PE1000: Polyethylene grade designation indicating ultra-high molecular weight

High-Performance polyethylene.

 

UHMWPE pipe refers to a type of pipe made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). These pipes utilize the exceptional properties of UHMWPE, such as high abrasion resistance, low coefficient of friction, chemical resistance, and impact strength.

UHMWPE pipes are commonly used in a variety of applications, particularly in industries where these properties are advantageous. Some common applications include:

1. Mining: UHMWPE pipes are used for slurry transportation due to their excellent abrasion resistance, which helps in reducing wear and tear caused by abrasive materials.

2. Dredging: These pipes are suitable for transporting sand, mud, and other dredged materials due to their resistance to abrasion and low friction, which allows for smooth flow.

3. Water and wastewater treatment: UHMWPE pipes are used in water treatment plants and wastewater systems for their corrosion resistance and long service life.

4. Chemical processing: They are employed for transporting corrosive chemicals and acids due to their chemical resistance properties.

5. Agriculture: UHMWPE pipes can be used in irrigation systems for their resistance to abrasion and chemicals.

 

Overall, UHMWPE pipes offer durability, longevity, and reliability in various industrial applications where conventional materials may fail to perform adequately.

Dragon UHMWPE, is a manufacturer focus on extrusion of UHMWPE pipes, with mainly application at mining area, since from 2004.