UHMWPE: The Superior Material Powering Salco’s Hazarsolve Lineup
In the landscape of industrial materials, Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a standout. This high-strength thermoplastic polymer, also known as high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE), is revolutionizing industries with its unique blend of strength, durability, and versatility.
UHMWPE’s strength lies in its long molecular chains, which allow for effective load transfer. This results in a material with the highest impact strength of any thermoplastic currently produced. It’s not just strong, but it’s also versatile, finding applications in bearings, wear plates, and rollers.
UHMWPE’s unique properties include high strength, excellent impact resistance, and high abrasion resistance. Its low coefficient of friction makes it ideal for applications involving friction, sliding motion, or wear. Its high chemical resistance makes it suitable for use in harsh environments, and its flexibility in low temperatures and non-toxicity make it safe for food contact and even medical implants.
UHMWPE is produced from regular polyethylene through a process called chain stretching. This process increases the chain length and molecular weight of the polymer, enhancing its strength. However, it’s important to note that increasing the polymer’s stretch can negatively affect its flexibility and impact resistance properties.
At Salco Products Inc, we’re not just in the business of innovation, we’re in the business of revolutionizing industries. While others in the rail industry rely on heavy metals, we’re harnessing the power of UHMWPE. Its resistance to corrosive chemicals, extremely low moisture absorption, very low coefficient of friction, and self-lubricating nature make it an ideal choice for many different jobs. It is also highly resistant to abrasion, being 15 times more resistant to abrasion than carbon steel.
We use the highest quality UHMWPE materials in our Hazarsolve products, a complete line of corrosion-resistant fluid and vapor transfer equipment designed specifically for the Chlor-Alkali chemical market. We also utilize UHMWPE in innovative ways by combining it with traditionally metal-made products. This results in products that are lighter, stronger, longer-lasting, and more chemical resistant than their traditional counterparts, providing an improved experience for the end user.
Some of the ways we utilize the superior properties of UHMWPE include:
• Forming whole products such as Pipe Fittings, Eduction Tubes, Surge Protectors, Parallel Instrument Tees, Piping, and Flanges.
• Providing protective linings for parts such as Spools, Fill Hole Covers, Hammer Unions, Blind Flanges, and Fittings Plate Fill Holes.
• Improving existing products. For instance, our Bottom Outlet Valve Handles utilize UHMWPE to provide an improved bearing surface on which the handle operates.
In the world of high-performance materials, UHMWPE is a game-changer. Its unique properties and versatility make it an asset in various industries, from manufacturing to medical applications. As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible, UHMWPE will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of industrial applications.