HDPE Materials
HDPE (high-density polyethylene) or PEHD (polyethylene high-density) is a thermoplastic polymer made from the ethylene monomer. When HDPE pipes are utilised, they are sometimes referred to as “alkathene” or “polythene.” HDPE is used to make plastic bottles, corrosion-resistant pipes, geomembranes, and plastic lumber because of its high strength-to-density ratio. HDPE is a frequently recycled plastic with the resin identification code “2.”
For applications that demand more strength and stiffness than LDPE, HDPE (high density polyethylene) is available in sheet and rod form (low density polyethylene). It’s simple to manufacture and weld with thermoplastic welding equipment, making it a great option for fabricated water and chemical tanks.
HDPE IS WIDELY USED FOR:
- Chemical tanks
- Cutting boards for food preparation
- Water pipe flanges (HDPE pipe grade)
- Outdoor and indoor playground systems
- Marine construction (pile guards, bumpers,
- anti-skid surfaces)
- Orthotics and prosthetics – AFOs, KAFOs
- Light duty tank, chute and bin linings
- Outdoor cabinetry and furniture
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS:
- Easy to weld using thermoplastic welding equipment
- Low moisture absorption
- Excellent surface for food preparation
- Good chemical and corrosion resistance
- Easy to fabricate and machine
- Low weight
COMMON BRANDS:
- Polystone® G
- Sanatec®
- Orthoform®
STANDARD SIZES
| INDUSTRIAL SHEET | Dimensions: 48 in x 96 in – 60 in x 120 in |
| Thickness: 0.062 in – 4 in |
| SHEET | Dimensions: 24 in x 48 in – 48 in x 96 in |
| Thickness: 0.0312 in – 0.250 in |
| ROD | Outside Diameter: 0.250 in – 14 in |
OPTIONS AVAILABLE
| COLOR | Industrial: Natural, Black, Red, Yellow, Green, Beige, Blue, Polar White, Mercury Gray, Seafoam, Sand Shade, Whitewash, Teak, Weatherwood, Dark Ash, Mahogany, Sanshade, Dolphin Gray, White/WhiteO&P: NaturalEngravable: Blue/White/Blue, White/Red/White, Black/White/Black, White/Black/White, Beige/Green/Beige, Blue/Yellow/Blue, and many more |
| TEXTURE, SURFACE, PATTERN | Matte/Matte, Smooth, Woodgrain |
| GRADES | FDA Compliant, UV Resistant, Cutting Board, Marineboard, Playground Board, Multi-Color Engravable, Enhanced stiffness, Pipe Grade |
Length, width, thickness, and diameter tolerances vary by size, by manufacturer, brand, and grade. Custom sizes and colors available upon request.
HDPE Properties and Material Options
HDPE MATERIAL OPTIONS
Cutting board grade HDPE – meets FDA requirements for direct and indirect food contact, is resistant to hot water, and cleaning chemicals, and will not absorb moisture, bacteria or odors.
Enhanced Stiffness HDPE – for applications that are expected to last for many years to come, enhanced HDPE sheet is 25% stiffer than original HDPE and offers superior flatness and consistency.
UV stabilized grade HDPE – performs well in environments where water, UV exposure, and other harsh elements are present, making it a popular choice for playgrounds, outdoor cabinetry, and marine construction. Lightweight marine-grade options are available in closed cell (foamed) HDPE sheet. Environmentally stabilized Seaboard® LITE and StarLite® XL are 20 – 35% lighter than traditional HDPE sheet for weight savings. Seaboard® Utility is a lightweight marine-grade HDPE sheet for non-UV exposure applications.
Engravable HDPE – This multi-color UV stabilized HDPE is a durable, weather-resistant, and easy to machine sheet material. Engravable sheet is available in a variety of color combinations that don’t need paint or refinishing, and makes for an excellent material alternative for signage and wayfinding, carnival games, and children’s furniture.
HDPE for O&P – is somewhat stiffer and tougher than polypro (homopolymer polypropylene) and often used for applications where additional durability and support are required.
Antimicrobial HDPE – King MediGrade® antimicrobial HDPE sheet protects the product surface against stain and odor causing bacteria, algae and fungi. The antimicrobial agent is bonded at the molecular level so it retains its effectiveness throughout the life of the product, unlike surface coatings. Like other HDPE material, it machines well with traditional woodworking tools and its durability makes it a good choice for cabinetry, medical facilities, hospitals, medical carts, nursing homes, locker rooms, and more. Many King HDPE products can also be upgraded to include their proprietary antimicrobial additive, King MicroShield®, upon request.
SIMOGUARD™ Antimicrobial Additive – is available for many grades of HDPE, including FDA approved cutting board, playground board, and lightweight marine board. SIMOGUARD™ antimicrobial technology contains a proprietary EPA-registered ingredient integrated throughout the sheet that inhibits microorganism growth. Over time, materials treated with SIMOGUARD™ maintain a clean, durable, and more hygienic surface compared to untreated materials.
TimberLine™ Woodgrain HDPE – has authentic woodgrain color and texture and is virtually maintenance-free. Material can be fabricated using standard woodworking tools and has the flexibility to be heated and shaped for custom projects. Unique variegated color sheet to sheet. Will not delaminate, chip, rot or swell. Ideal for outdoor furniture, cabinetry and storage, building and construction elements, and playground systems.
TYPICAL PROPERTIES OF HDPE
| UNITS | ASTM TEST | HDPE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength | psi | D638 | 4,000 |
| Flexural modulus | psi | D790 | 200,000 |
| Izod impact (notched) | ft-lbs/in of notch | D256 | 1.3 |
| Heat deflection temperature @ 264 psi | °F | D648 | 172 |
| Maximum continuous service temperature in air | °F | – | |
| Water absorption (immersion 24 hours) | % | D570 | 0.10 |
| Coefficient of linear thermal expansion | in/in/°Fx10-5 | D696 | 7.0 |
Values may vary according to brand name. Please ask your Petron Thermoplast representative for more specific information about an individual brand.
POPULAR PLASTIC MATERIAL COMPARISONS:
HDPE vs. UHMW — Both are abrasion resistant, but which is right for your specific application?
HDPE vs. LDPE — One is more rigid while the other is more flexible, but which is right for your specific application?
Explore the physical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, and optical properties of HDPE.
Sort, compare, and find the plastic material suited for your application using our interactive properties table.