High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a thermoplastic polymer manufactured from the monomer ethylene. It is the popular plastic holding enormous versatile polymer that suits a wide range of applications. It is a cost-effective thermoplastic with a linear structure with no or low degree of branching. The plastic is manufactured in at a temperature of 70-300 degrees under a pressure bar of 10-80 bar.

The product is prepared from the ethylene by a catalytic process. The absence of branching results to more close structure with higher density. HDPE is a durable, versatile, abrasion, low cost, and chemically resistant plastic material. It is available in sheets, and rods that require greater stiffness and strength then LDPE (low-density polyethylene). It is easy to fabricate by using welding equipment and is an excellent choice for fabrication.

HDPE is available in several colors including natural black, red, yellow, green, blue, and natural shades.

Product Features

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to weld by using thermoplastic welding equipment.
  • Good corrosion and chemical resistance.
  • Easy to fabricate and use the machine.
  • Low cost
  • Impact resistance from 40-90-degree C.

Product Applications

  • Chemical tanks
  • Outdoor furniture and cabinetry.
  • Cutting or chopping boards used in the kitchen.
  • Indoor and outdoor playgrounds.
  • Water pipe flanges.
  • Marine construction (bumpers, pilers, anti-skid surface).

 

Standard Sizes

Sheet

Dimensions:

24 in x 48 in – 48 in x 96 in

Thickness: 0.0312 in – 0.250 in

Rod

Outside Diameter:
0.250 in – 14 in

Industrial sheet

Dimensions:

48 in x 96 in – 60 in x 120 in

Thickness:

0.062 in – 4 in

 

Grades

  • UV resistance
  • FDA compliance
  • Cutting board
  • Playground board
  • Marine board
  • Pipe grade

Note: Length, width, diameter, thickness can vary by brand, manufacture and grade.

 

Additional HDPE properties

UV stabilized grade- It performs well in water, UV exposures, and other harsh elements. Therefore, it is a popular choice for marine construction, outdoor cabinetry and playgrounds.

HDPE for O & P – Its hard and stiff than polypro and hence used for applications which seeks for durability, and support.

Meets regulatory requirements – For direct and indirect food contact, the product is resistant to cleaning chemicals, hot water, and won’t absorb any bacteria or odors.

General HDPE Properties

Properties Units ASTM test HDPE
Tensile strength Psi D638 4,000
Water absorption % D570 0.10
Izod impact ft-lbs/in of notch D256 1.3
Flexural modulus Psi D790 200,000
Maximum temperature °F
Heat deflection temperature °F D648 172
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion in/in/°Fx10-5
D696
7.0

 

Note: Values may differ according to the brand.

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