Description
Black UHMW Sheet is available in 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", and 3/4" thicknesses with pre-cut sizes including 24" × 24", 12" × 24", and 12" × 12". For custom sizes or bulk orders, contact us for a quote.
Black UHMW Sheet (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) is an engineering-grade plastic known for exceptional abrasion resistance, low friction, and extreme durability. This self-lubricating material offers the lowest coefficient of friction of any thermoplastic, making it ideal for wear strips, slide bearings, and applications requiring smooth, maintenance-free operation. UHMW is significantly tougher and more abrasion-resistant than standard HDPE, making it the material of choice for high-wear industrial applications.
Black UHMW won't corrode, absorb moisture, or bind under load, providing reliable performance in the most demanding environments. The material is impact-resistant even at low temperatures, maintaining toughness down to -400°F. Easy to machine using standard tools, UHMW can be cut, drilled, and routed for custom applications. Its exceptional wear resistance makes it last 5-10 times longer than steel in abrasive applications. FDA-compliant for food contact, chemical-resistant, and virtually maintenance-free - UHMW is the ultimate material for wear parts, conveyor components, and heavy-duty industrial applications.
Features
- Exceptional abrasion and wear resistance
- Lowest friction coefficient of any plastic
- Self-lubricating, no maintenance required
- Impact resistant, even at low temperatures
- Chemical resistant to most substances
- Won't corrode, rot, or absorb moisture
- FDA-compliant for food contact
- Lasts 5-10x longer than steel in wear applications
- Easy to machine with standard tools
- Operates from -400°F to 180°F
Applications of Black UHMW Sheet
- Wear Strips & Slide Bearings
- Conveyor Components & Guide Rails
- Chute Liners & Hoppers
- Truck Bed Liners
- Material Handling Equipment
- Food Processing Machinery
- Packaging Equipment
- Marine Fender Facing
- Abrasion-Resistant Parts
- Impact Pads & Bumpers
Available Sizes & Options
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1/4" (0.250") Thickness
Available Sizes: 24" × 24" | 12" × 24" | 12" × 12"
Popular for wear strips, light-duty liners, and applications requiring thinner, flexible material
3/8" (0.375") Thickness
Available Sizes: 12" × 24" | 12" × 12"
Ideal for conveyor components, medium-duty wear parts, and guide rails
1/2" (0.500") Thickness
Available Sizes: 24" × 24" | 12" × 24" | 12" × 12"
Most popular for chute liners, slide bearings, and heavy-duty wear applications
3/4" (0.750") Thickness
Available Sizes: 24" × 24" | 12" × 24" | 12" × 12"
Heavy-duty option for extreme wear applications, impact pads, and maximum durability requirements
Custom Sizes & Bulk Orders
Need custom sizes, larger sheets (up to 60" × 120"), or bulk quantities? We can accommodate custom orders and provide precision cutting for your specific application. Request a custom quote or call 844-970-0650 to discuss your UHMW requirements.
Why Choose UHMW Over Standard HDPE?
UHMW offers superior performance for wear applications: 5-10x better abrasion resistance, lower friction, and longer lifespan than HDPE. While HDPE works for general fabrication, UHMW is the engineering choice for high-wear, high-friction, or heavy-load applications where material replacement is costly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between UHMW and HDPE?
UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) has significantly higher molecular weight than standard HDPE, resulting in superior abrasion resistance, lower friction, and better impact strength. UHMW lasts 5-10 times longer than HDPE in wear applications and has the lowest coefficient of friction of any thermoplastic. Choose UHMW for high-wear applications; choose HDPE for general fabrication where extreme durability isn't required.
Is UHMW food safe?
Yes, UHMW is FDA-compliant for direct food contact and is commonly used in food processing equipment, conveyor systems, and food handling machinery. Its non-porous surface won't harbor bacteria, and its abrasion resistance means it won't shed particles into food products. UHMW is the material of choice for food processing wear parts.
How do I machine and fabricate UHMW?
UHMW machines easily with standard woodworking or metalworking tools. Use sharp, carbide-tipped blades and moderate speeds. The material can be cut, drilled, routed, and turned on a lathe. UHMW's self-lubricating properties mean chips won't stick to tools. For best results, allow adequate cooling time and use proper chip evacuation. Professional machining services are available for complex parts.
Can UHMW be used outdoors?
Yes, UHMW performs well outdoors. While it's not UV-stabilized like black HDPE (some surface fading may occur over time), it maintains its mechanical properties and doesn't become brittle. The black color provides better UV resistance than natural UHMW. UHMW is commonly used in marine applications, outdoor conveyors, and agricultural equipment where extreme durability matters more than appearance.
