UHMW vs. PTFE
Compare UHMW and PTFE to identify the best option for your project
Differences Between UHMW and PTFE
UHMW (ultra high molecular weight polyethylene) is an extremely tough plastic with high abrasion and wear resistance. The versatility of polyethylene has made it a popular plastic for countless industrial applications that require durability, low friction, and chemical resistance. Applications include UHMW wear strips, chain guides, packaging machinery parts, and marine dock fender pads.
PTFE (polytetrefluoroethylene) is a soft, low friction fluoropolymer with outstanding chemical resistance and weathering resistance. PTFE is stable at temperatures up to 500°F and it is often used in high temperature environments. PTFE also has excellent electrical insulating properties.
UHMW Material Characteristics |
PTFE Material Characteristics |
---|---|
• Good chemical resistance • Low friction • Extremely tough and durable • Excellent abrasion resistance • Low moisture absorption • Easy to fabricate |
• Outstanding chemical resistance • Extremely low friction • Performs well at elevated temperatures • Soft and formable • Good weathering resistance • Good for bearings |
UHMW Applications |
PTFE Applications |
• High speed conveyors • Packaging machinery parts • Food processing machinery parts • Chute, hopper, and truck bed liners • Wear strips and guide rails • Star wheels and idler sprockets • Bumpers, pile guards, and dock fenders |
• Semiconductor equipment • Scientific equipment • Seals and gaskets • Valve and fitting components • Pump parts • Manifolds • Bearings and bushings (bearing grades) • Chemical resistant tubing |
UHMW Common Brands |
PTFE Common Brands |
• Polystone® M, Tivar®, GUR®, LubX® | • Rulon®, Fluorosint® |
Typical Properties of UHMW vs. PTFE
Property | Units | ASTM Test |
UHMW-PE | PTFE |
---|---|---|---|---|
Specific gravity (73°F) | - | D792 | 0.93 | 2.15 |
Tensile strength (73°F) | psi | D638 | 3,100 | 1,500 - 3,000 |
Tensile elongation (73°F) | % | D638 | 350 | 100 - 200 |
Flexural modulus of elasticity (73°F) | psi | D790 | 110,000 | 72,000 |
Hardness Rockwell M&R, Durometer Shore D (73°F) |
scale as noted | D785, D2240 |
Shore D 64 | Shore D 55 |
Izod impact (notched, 73°F) | ft-lbs/in | D256 | 18.0* | 3.5 |
Coefficient of friction | - | Dynamic | 0.10 - 0.20 | 0.10 |
Coefficient of linear thermal expansion | in/in/°Fx10-5 | D696 | 11.1 | 8.9 |
Heat deflection temperature (66 psi/264 psi) | °F | D648 | - | 250 / - |
Maximum continuous service temperature in air | °F | - | 180 | 500 |
Water absorption (immersion 24 hours) | % | D570 | slight | <0.01 |
Values may vary according to brand name. Please ask your Curbell Plastics representative for more specific information about an individual brand. *Double-15° notch.
Know what you need? Shop our UHMW and PTFE plastics online, or Contact Us with questions about these plastic materials.
Not sure which materials best fit your needs?
Our experienced sales and technical teams are available to assist you with material selection challenges.