Ultra-High Molecular Weight (UHMW) Polyethylene Seal
What Is a UHMW Polyethylene Seal?
UHMW Polyethylene seals (sometimes referred to as UHMW seals, UHMWPE seals, or high polyethylene seals) are precision-engineered polymer seals made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. This advanced thermoplastic polymer—known for its exceptional abrasion resistance, low coefficient of friction, and impressive impact strength—makes UHMW polymer seals the preferred choice for demanding industrial sealing applications.
Duron® UHMW Polyethylene | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material Name | Material Description | Operating Temperature Range (°F) | Wear Resistance (1=Poor & 5=Excellent) | Mating Metal Wear |
| DURON® 15 | Extruded Ultra-High Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) is similar to Duron® 14 for general application use for high pressure and demanding wear applications. Material is clear. | -350 to 180 | 5 | Medium |
| DURON® 138 | Ultra-High Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) Reduces the oxidization rate of the material at higher temperatures thereby slowing material degradation and extending wear-life in chemical applications. Color is white. | -350 to 250 | 5 | Medium |
| DURON® 155 | Molded Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) Well-suited for sealing small molecular gases or liquids. The material is FDA approved. Material is clear. | -350 to 180 | 5 | Medium |
| DURON® 14 | Premium Ultra-High Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) with a Gold Filler has superior wear and pressure tolerances, but does not have the same high-temperature tolerance as PTFE materials like Duron® 1. Duron® 14 is a choice material for dynamic high-pressure applications where low wear is required. Color is gold. | -350 to 200 | 5 | Medium |
Why Choose UHMWPE Seals?
- Extreme Wear Resistance: UHMWPE seals are renowned for superior wear and abrasion resistance, resulting in longer service life compared to conventional sealing materials.
- Low Friction: The low coefficient of friction of UHMW polymer seals minimizes energy loss, reducing heat and extending operational life for moving equipment.
- Excellent Chemical Compatibility: UHMW polyethylene seals are resistant to a wide variety of chemicals, acids, and solvents, making them ideal for use in harsh chemical environments.
- Lightweight & Non-Marking: UHMWPE is significantly lighter than metals—reducing component weight—and will not mark mating surfaces.
- Cryogenic & High-Pressure Tolerance: UHMWPE seals and UHMW seals maintain their properties in extreme cold (as low as -350°F) and under high-pressure conditions, making them suitable for diverse industries.
- FDA Compliance Available: Certain grades of UHMW polyethylene seals meet FDA standards for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical processing applications.
UHMW Seal Applications
UHMW seals and UHMWPE seals are well-suited for a range of applications, thanks to their durability, chemical resistance, and impressive performance profile:
- Chemical processing seals and gaskets
- Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinder seals
- Food and beverage processing equipment
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Oil and gas seals & pipeline protection
- Semiconductor and electronics manufacturing
- General equipment wear rings, guides, and bushings
UHMWPE Seals vs. Traditional Seal Materials
Compared to PTFE, nylon, or acetal, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene seals provide better abrasion resistance, can handle higher impacts, and offer extremely low friction—all with excellent chemical resistance.
Custom-Engineered UHMW Polyethylene Seals
Performance Sealing Inc. specializes in the design and manufacture of custom UHMWPE seals and UHMW polymer seals for the world’s most demanding industrial environments. Our technical team will work closely with you to develop optimal high polyethylene seal solutions—tailored to your operating temperatures, pressures, speeds, media, and regulatory needs.
Get a Quote or Ask a Seal Expert
Ready to upgrade your sealing solution with durable UHMWPE seals or high polyethylene seals? Contact our team today to discuss your project or request a quote.
Request A Quote Online Or Call Us At 866.429.2536