UHMW: A Durable, Low-Friction Polymer for High-Wear Applications
- EJ Vongher
- Nov 9
- 2 min read
UHMW, or Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene, is a tough, high-performance polymer engineered for exceptional abrasion resistance, low friction, and chemical stability.
At Paradigm Polymer, we machine UHMW into precision circular components on Swiss automatic lathes, achieving consistent concentricity, tight tolerances, and smooth surface finishes. Its combination of durability, machinability, and dimensional stability makes UHMW ideal for components exposed to repeated wear, impact, or harsh chemical environments.
Why UHMW is a Preferred Choice for Plastic Parts
Chemical and Moisture Resistance
UHMW resists most acids, bases, and solvents, and absorbs virtually no moisture. This ensures consistent performance in wet, chemical, or outdoor environments, including fluid-handling and industrial systems.
Low Friction Performance
With a naturally low coefficient of friction, UHMW reduces wear and heat generation in dynamic applications. This makes it ideal for rotating or sliding circular components in mechanical assemblies.
Exceptional Wear Resistance - UHMW is one of the most abrasion-resistant plastics available. Circular parts such as bearings, bushings, wear rings, and rollers retain shape and function even under continuous sliding, impact, or abrasive contact..
Fatigue and Impact Strength
UHMW can absorb repeated shocks and impacts without cracking or deforming. Circular components such as roller bushings, collars, and spacers maintain durability under cyclic loading.
Machinability for Precision Work
Despite its toughness, with the right tools, UHMW can be machined cleanly on Swiss automatic lathes, allowing precise diameters, concentricity, and smooth finishes — ideal for custom bushings, spacers, and other round components.
Common Applications of UHMW in Various Industries
Medical Devices
Smooth, durable bushings and spacers for surgical tools or diagnostic devices
Components exposed to repeated sterilization cycles
Non-toxic, biocompatible circular parts for fluid-handling systems
Fluid & Gas Handling
Seals, spacers, and wear rings in pumps, regulators, and valves
Circular components resistant to chemical corrosion and abrasion
Low-friction parts reducing wear in dynamic fluid or gas systems
Electrical and Electronics
Insulating bushings and low-friction sleeves for moving contacts
Components requiring high wear resistance and dimensional stability
Precision circular parts for connector and sensor assemblies
Industrial & Manufacturing Applications
Wear rings, rollers, and bushings in conveyor and processing systems
Impact- and abrasion-resistant collars and spacers
Low-friction bearings for moving machinery components
Food & Packaging Machinery
Bushings, rollers, and spacers in conveyors and packaging equipment
Abrasion-resistant parts for contact with food or moisture
Circular components that maintain tight tolerances under continuous operation
Limitations of UHMW
While UHMW is exceptionally tough and wear-resistant, it has a lower continuous-use temperature (~80–100 °C / 176–212 °F) than high-performance polymers like PEEK or Ultem. It also has relatively low stiffness, so it is better suited for impact- and wear-focused applications rather than load-bearing structural components. Additionally, its soft, ductile nature can cause burring or fine surface hairs during cutting, requiring specialized tooling and extra finishing. This adds modest cost but ensures precise, smooth parts that meet our quality standards.
Conclusion
For precision circular parts that require low friction, high wear resistance, and chemical stability, UHMW is an outstanding choice. At Paradigm Polymer, our Swiss automatic lathe machining ensures concentric, high-finish UHMW components tailored to demanding industrial, medical, electrical, and fluid-handling applications. Contact Paradigm Polymer today to learn how UHMW can deliver durable, high-performance circular components for your next project.