PE is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymer belonging to the polyolefin family. It is a paraffin hydrocarbon characterized by a smooth, slightly waxy surface. Polyethylene is available in different density grades and is commonly classified as LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene), MDPE (Medium Density Polyethylene), HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) and UHMW-PE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene). Recycled grades are also available for selected applications.

Chemical Designation

Polyethylene

Abbreviation

PE

Natural Color and Additives

• White, translucent
• Available in more than 500 colors

Available Forms

• Rods
• Sheets
• Pressure pipes
• Pipe fittings
• Strips, welding rods, profiles and piping accessories
• Finished products, machined or injection molded

Key Properties

• Excellent impact resistance over a wide temperature range
• Low water absorption
• Food-contact compliant grades available
• Good electrical insulating properties
• Low coefficient of friction
• Good chemical resistance
• Difficult to bond with adhesives
• Mechanical and electrical properties are retained in wet environments
• Easy to weld (PE 300), except by ultrasonic welding
• High thermal expansion

Typical Applications

Polyethylene is widely used in:

• Food processing industry
• Pipe systems
• Plumbing and HVAC applications
• Tanks and containers
• Components requiring low friction
• Electrical insulation applications

Typical Products

• Cutting boards
• Impact pads
• Household products
• Cable insulation
• Fuel tanks
• Sealing rings
• Pipes and pipe fittings
• Containers
• Wear strips
• Plain bearings
• Machine components
• Processing and handling equipment