A high‑density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet is a versatile thermoplastic panel made from polymerizing ethylene under high pressure. Known for its outstanding balance of strength, stiffness, and chemical resistance, HDPE sheets are widely used across industries for structural components, protective linings, and fabrications where durability and low maintenance are essential.
Key Features
- High Strength‑to‑Weight Ratio
- Density ranges from 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm³, delivering superior rigidity and impact resistance in a lightweight form.
- Excellent Chemical Resistance
- Unaffected by most acids, alkalis, salts, and organic solvents, making it ideal for corrosive environments.
- Low Water Absorption
- < 0.01% water uptake ensures dimensional stability in wet or humid conditions.
- UV and Weather Resistance
- UV‑stabilized grades resist discoloration and embrittlement outdoors.
- Food‑Grade and FDA‑Compliant Options
- Meets FDA 21 CFR 177.1520 for safe contact with food products.
- Easy Machinability
- Can be sawed, milled, drilled, thermoformed, and welded with standard tools and techniques.
Typical Applications
- Industrial Linings & Tanks
- Corrosion‑resistant linings for chemical storage tanks, chutes, and hoppers.
- Food Processing & Packaging
- Slicers, cutting boards, conveyor guides, and dairy equipment components.
- Marine & Transportation
- Dock bumpers, fender pads, deck components, and custom profiles.
- Construction & Landscaping
- Structural panels, protective barriers, playground slides, and signage.
- Agriculture & Water Management
- Irrigation channels, troughs, greenhouse glazing, and pond liners.
Common Technical Specifications
| Property | Unit | Typical Value | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | g/cm³ | 0.93 – 0.97 | ASTM D792 |
| Tensile Strength | MPa | ≥ 20 | ASTM D638 |
| Flexural Modulus | MPa | ≥ 800 | ASTM D790 |
| Notched Izod Impact Strength | kJ/m² | ≥ 15 | ASTM D256 |
| Water Absorption (24 h) | % | < 0.01 | ASTM D570 |
| Service Temperature Range | °C | –50 to +80 | — |
Selection & Installation Guide
- Choose the Right Grade
- Natural HDPE for general use; UV‑stabilized for outdoor; FDA‑grade for food contact.
- Determine Thickness & Size
- Standard thicknesses from 2 mm to 100 mm; sheet sizes up to 2 × 4 m or custom lengths.
- Machining Considerations
- Use sharp carbide‑tipped tools; maintain feed rates to avoid melting.
- Joining Methods
- Butt welding or hot‑plate welding for strong, leak‑proof seams; mechanical fastening as an alternative.
- Supplier Verification
- Seek ISO 9001 certification and material test reports for physical and chemical properties.
Maintenance & Care
- Cleaning: Wash with mild detergent and water; avoid solvents like acetone or toluene.
- Inspection: Check periodically for scratches, stress cracks, or UV damage; replace degraded sections.
- Temperature Control: Keep within the –50 °C to +80 °C service range to prevent warping.
- UV Protection: For prolonged sun exposure, apply UV‑resistant coatings or select black‑pigmented HDPE.
