Material Name: Polyethylene (PE)
Intek Plastics extrudes high-quality custom plastic parts using Polyethylene across a wide range of market applications. We offer a wide range of standard compounds of polyethylene, including low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).
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Polyethylene Properties
Polyethylene general properties include good rigidity, toughness, flexibility, electrical and corrosion resistance but it has a relatively low melting point. PE is widely available, with mechanical properties that largely depend on the method of polymerization and the molecular structure.
UV stability largely depends on the additive packages, opacity, and colorants used.
Polyethylene Advantages
- Low-Cost Polymer – Good Processability
- Food Grades Available – FDA Compliant
- Good Low Temperature Resistance
- Good Resistance To Most Solvents – Ex: Alcohols, Dilute Acids and Alkalis
- Impact Resistant – from 40° to 194° F
- Moisture Resistant
- Excellent Electrical Insulating Properties
What is Polyethylene (PE)?
Polyethylene (PE) #1 is a thermoplastic polymer and the most common plastic in the world by volume.
It is light, flexible, low cost and versatile across many markets.
Types of Polyethylene
- Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) #4 — Low-density polyethylene is a flexible material generally made by free-radical polymerization, the molecular structure contains many sidechains and a random structure. This disrupts the crystallinity and leads to a more flexible material. LDPE is very common in grocery bags, plastic wrap, and flexible packaging.
- Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) — Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) is similar to LDPE, but has added advantages. It is characterized by long main chains and short side chains and is generally tougher than LDPE. LLDPE is often used for plastic films, garbage cans and recycle bins, and playground equipment.
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) #2 — High-density polyethylene (HDPE) has a high strength-to-density ratio and is characterized by long, linear chains of polyethylene (the material varies in its rigidity due to crystallinity). It is often used for milk jugs, non-microwavable food containers, and heavier food packaging, recycle code 2. Generally resistant to most household solvents. Max use temp is 180-212 °F, which is why it melts if used in the microwave.
- Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) — Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is characterized by extremely high molecular weight. This material is often used for its machinability and for high wear applications, high-strength low-stretch fibers (spectra/DCF) and bullet proof vests. UMHWPE is not extrudable by traditional means.
Custom Plastic Extrusion
Whether its extruded polyethylene or any number of different plastics, choosing the perfect material for a new extrusion project can be an intimidating task. Intek works closely with industry-leading material manufacturers to offer you many different thermoplastic compound options to meet your project’s needs. And Intek Plastics’ tool and die team applies their knowledge and expertise with the most advanced CAD/CAM software, CNC machining and the latest in EDM technology to custom build the highest quality tools. They’ll work with you to literally shape your ideas and take them from concept to production.
Capabilities
With over 30 production lines, we can manufacture rigid PVC extrusions 24 hours a day, 5 days a week, allowing us to scale production to complete large orders of any complexity. And our extensive extrusion experience in pellet and powder compounds, as well as our advanced cooling capabilities in water, air and vacuum sizing, allow us to succeed in jobs of any shape or size. We serve a wide range of OEMs with orders from 5,000 to 15,000,000 feet.
Polyethylene Plastic Properties
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL VALUE | UNITS | ASTM METHOD |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHYSICAL | |||
| Rockwell Hardness | 79 | R scale | D-785 |
| Specific Gravity | 0.95 | D-782 | |
| MECHANICAL | |||
| Flexural Modulus | 120,000 | psi | D-790 |
| Flexural Strength | 3,000 | psi | D-790 |
| Tensile Modulus | 180,000 | psi | D-638 |
| Tensile Strength | 2,900 | psi | D-638 |
| Tensile Elongation | 15 | % | D-638 |
| Notched Izod Impact | 1.0 | ft-lb/in | D-256 |
| Un-notched Izod Impact | No break | ft-lb/in | D-256 |
| THERMAL | |||
| Heat Deflection Temp: 0.125 in @ 66 psi | 180 | °F | D-648 |
| Heat Deflection Temp: 0.125 in @ 264 psi | 130 | °F | D-648 |
| Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion | 6.8 x 10 ^-5 | in/in/°F | D-696 |
| FLAMMABILITY | |||
| Flame Rating – UL at 0.0625″ | HB | UL94 |
The information provided above is based on typical values, and is believed to be reliable. No warranty is given as to the suitability of the product for a particular application. Determination of the suitability of this product for any use is solely the responsibility of the user.
Work with Intek
Did you know that a whopping 85% of the cost of custom plastic extrusions are determined by the design and material? That’s why it’s important to work with an PVC extruder like Intek who will work hand-in-glove with you and design a high-quality product at the lowest total cost. We start by gaining a deep understanding of your needs. Armed with that information, an Intek project engineer guides you through material selection, highlights critical design considerations and helps develop the most cost-effective solution. This hands-on, knowledge-driven approach keeps your product and business a step ahead of the competition. We’re happy to walk you through the rigid PVC selection process.