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Customer PortalGUR® ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) is a linear polyethylene with a much higher molecular weight than standard PE, which offers outstanding abrasion resistance, superior impact resistance, non-sticking and self-lubricating properties, and excellent mechanical characteristics, even in cryogenic conditions.
UHMW-PE is an extremely high viscosity polymer that is produced in the form of a powder and has an average particle size diameter typically ranging from 100-200 microns.
As a result of its viscosity, it generally cannot be processed by the common methods used for ordinary thermoplastics. As an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene supplier, Celanese understands that compression molding and ram extrusion processes are key to generating the high pressures needed to fuse UHMW-PE particles together. Then they typically are used to form the material into stock shapes or profiles with subsequent machining as necessary.
Because of its abrasion resistance, chemical resistance and good frictional properties, major application areas of UHMW-PE include bulk material handling, food and beverage machinery, chemical, mining and mineral processing equipment, recreational equipment, transportation and orthopedic implants.
GUR® UHMW-PE can also be gel processed for such applications as battery separators, synthetic paper or high-strength fiber applications. The free sintering process can be used to produce porous parts such as filters, wicking parts, and fluid delivery components.
Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a linear, low-pressure, Ziegler-type catalyst, polyethylene resin. Its weight-average molecular weight of 4 x 106 is approximately ten times that of high molecular weight high density polyethylene (HMW-HDPE) resins. The extremely high molecular weight of this resin, which is commercially available in grades ranging in molecular weight from 3.5 x 106 to 6 x 106g/mol (ASTM calculation), yields several unique properties. UHMWPE has both the highest sliding abrasion resistance and highest notched impact strength of any commercial plastic.
Welcome to the world of GUR® UHMW-PE – an ultra-high-performance polyethylene powder that includes both ultra-high molecular weight and high molecular weight polyethylene. First produced in Oberhausen (Germany) in 1955, GUR® UHMW-PE has become synonymous with high quality, strong performance and innovation - a unique thermoplastic and engineering polymer.
The industrial semi-finished parts and porous industry searching for a ready-to-use sustainable option will find a solution with our large range of grades with up to 99.9% certified Bio-based content via ISCC Plus mass balance.
Drop-in solution for all grades:
Low friction and wear resistance are inherent properties of our GUR, and enable enhanced sustainability in many applications by helping make products that are both longer lasting and more energy efficient.
As a polyethylene with a very high molecular weight, GUR® UHMW-PE is produced as a powder that requires special processing. In the semi-finished industry, the high pressures generated in compression molding and ram extrusion processes fuse the particles together. The material is then typically formed into stock shapes or profiles. It can also be processed by gelation and pressureless sintering.
GUR® UHMW-PE premium grades for orthopedic implants and standard grades meet the requirements of heath organizations, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Union food-conformity. FDA Drug and Device Master Files are available for premium grades.