HDPE Uses - Explore Common Applications for High-Density Polyethylene

High-density polyethylene or HDPE is a commonly used petroleum thermoplastic and the most used of the three polyethylenes for a wide range of applications. If you look at this plastic under a microscope, you would see that it has a linear structure with few branches lending to its optimal strength/density ratio. As a result of its molecular makeup, this polymer shines brightest in applications where moisture resistance and cost-effectiveness are needed.

HDPE was created in the 1930s and used in high-frequency radar cables during World War II. It was introduced to the market commercially soon after. While its higher density versions yield a more rigid result, HDPE can vary in flexibility. Low-density grades of the thermoplastic are less stiff and the high-density grades have equally high crystallinity.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of HDPE

Even with its popularity, there are some advantages and disadvantages you should consider before using HDPE for your application:

Advantages

• Cost-effective
• Can withstand temperatures from -148 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit
• Non-leaching
• UV-resistant
• Dishwasher safe
• Resistant to most chemical solvents
• Stiff material

Disadvantages

• Poor weathering resistance
• Flammable
• Sensitive to stress cracking
• Difficult to bond

4 Common Uses for HDPE

1. Plastic bottles: Most people are informally introduced to the durable plastic through water bottles. HDPE is great for blow-molding applications, particularly food and beverage containers because it won’t leach into the bottles’ contents. In addition, HDPE is recyclable which makes it a great choice for these highly disposable products.
2. Toys: HDPE is UV resistant which helps keep the toys resistant to the ray’s damaging and discoloring effects.
3. Chemical containers: With its chemical resistant properties, HDPE is great for laundry, shampoo, conditioner, household cleaning products, motor oil, antifreeze and recycling bins. The strength of these bottles is increased when they’ve been colored or pigmented.
4. Pipe systems: HDPE pipe grade sheet has a higher molecular weight compared to the standard HDPE used in the above examples. This strengthening with its UV-resistance makes it ideal for piping and outdoor applications. Pipe grade sheet has the ability to withstand -220 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s durable in most chemical interactions which make it useful in a lot of industrial applications.

AC Plastics has HDPE industrial sheets including pipe grade, smooth sheet, and matte sheet to suit a wide range of applications. No matter how large or small your order is, we can fulfill your order. Order today, or call us to speak to one of our specialists.

The Advantages of HDPE Include

• Affordable
• High-Quality
• Operate and Harsh Temperatures
• Non-Leaching
• UV Resistant
• Resistant to most Chemicals
• Stiff Material
• Amazing Durability
• Highly Versatile

The Disadvantages of HDPE Include

• Poor Weathering
• Highly Flammable
• Sensitive to Stress Cracking
• Not Biodegradable
• Can't Be Composted
• Not Resistant to Oxidizing Acids
• Not Resistant to Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
• High Thermal Expansion
• Poor Temperature Capability

The Top Uses for HDPE Include

• Shampoo Bottles
• Toys
• Chemical Containers
• Pipe Systems
• Milk Jugs
• Recycling Bins
• Grocery Bags
• Cereal Box Liners
• Flower Pots

Polyethylene is the most widely used plastic in the world—and with good reason. Because of its superior impact strength and ability to stretch thin without breaking, it has uses in almost every industry. The advantage of using polyethylene for plastic parts comes down to one thing: versatility.

History

The discovery of polyethylene as it exists today took place in the 1930s in the United Kingdom, and it was actually an accident that resulted in a semi-crystalline material. It went into production in 1939, on the same day Germany invaded Poland. Polyethylene quickly found its use as insulation for radar equipment, which gave England a much-needed competitive edge.

Uses

Today, more than 100 million tons of the material’s resins are produced every year, adding up to 34 percent of the plastics market. Manufacturers can even spin polyethylene thin enough to become a fiber or modify it to be as elastic as rubber. Just a few of the everyday items made of polyethylene include:

• Food wrap
• Shopping bags
• Toys
• Shampoo bottles
• Pipes
• Vehicle fuel tanks
• Protective helmets
• Faux-wood planks
• Machine parts
• Six-ring drink holders
• Computer hardware casings
• Playground equipment
• Laundry bags

Grades

Low-Density

LDPE is an extruded material that offers low moisture permeability. This grade is most appropriate when good corrosion resistance is necessary, but other qualities are optional—qualities such as stiffness, high temperatures, and structural strength. Its melting point is between 105 and 115 degrees Celsius. LDPE is flexible and extremely mobile without stress fatigue, making it ideal for orthopedic products, consumer packaging, bags, bottles, and liners.

High-Density

HDPE is the most popular form of polyethylene because it’s lightweight with low moisture absorption. Its impact resistance is excellent, as is its tensile strength. Non-toxic and non-staining, HDPE meets FDA and USDA standards for use in food processing. Its melting point is between 120 and 180 degrees Celsius.

Ultra-High Molecular Weight

UHMW PE is most common in parts of machinery and equipment with a lot of wear. It’s a good lining in material-handling systems and storage containers. Like HDPE, it meets standards for use in food and pharmaceutical equipment. UHMW PE is lightweight—just one-eighth the weight of mild steel. It’s strong, self-lubricating, shatter resistant, abrasion and corrosion resistant, and long wearing. It’s as easy to machine as wood.

More Advantages

• Durability even with exposure to the elements
• Good electric insulation
• Recyclable into other products
• Excellent chemical resistance to organic solvents, degreasing agents, and electrolytic attack
• High compressive strength
• Excellent dielectric properties
• Resists most alkalis and acids
• Resists stress cracking
• Retains stiffness and flexibility

Miller Plastics has been in plastic product manufacturing for decades—in fact, we helped develop some of the early plastic-working tools and machines in the ’80s. We’ve learned firsthand the advantage of using polyethylene for plastic parts and can tell you if it’s the right material for your project. Contact us or visit our state-of-the-art facilities in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh.