Recycled ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) products are widely used in industry, transportation, construction and other fields, but their performance may be lower than that of virgin UHMWPE, so special attention should be paid to the following aspects when using them:
1. Mechanical properties & scope of application
Decrease in wear resistance: Due to changes in molecular structure, the wear resistance of recycled UHMWPE may be slightly lower than that of virgin materials, so it is not suitable for high-intensity wear environments, such as high-load conveying equipment, mining machinery, etc.
Decrease in impact resistance: Although UHMWPE has excellent impact resistance, the impact strength of recycled materials may be slightly reduced due to increased internal microcracks, and it is not suitable for extreme impact load applications.
Change in temperature resistance: Due to material degradation during the recycling process, the high temperature resistance of recycled UHMWPE may be slightly reduced, and it is generally not recommended for long-term use above 80°C.
Shortened service life: Due to the possible breakage of polymer chains during processing, the overall life of recycled UHMWPE products is usually 10%-30% shorter than that of virgin UHMWPE.
2. Structural stability & load attention
Check product thickness and density: Recycled UHMWPE may have internal voids or uneven density. Before use, check whether the thickness is sufficient to avoid breakage.
Avoid overload use: When used for support pads, sliding plates, and bearing pads, the rated load capacity of the product should be confirmed to prevent damage due to material fatigue.
Connection and fixing method: Since recycled UHMWPE may cause local hardness changes due to the hot pressing process, excessive tightening should be avoided when drilling and bolting to prevent material cracking.
3. Chemical & environmental tolerance
Chemical resistance is still strong: Recycled UHMWPE still has good acid, alkali, and solvent resistance and can be used in most chemical environments.
UV resistance may be reduced: Some recycled UHMWPE may not have anti-ultraviolet agents added. Long-term outdoor use may accelerate aging and brittleness. It is recommended to choose products that have been treated with UV.
Still excellent waterproof: Recycled UHMWPE still has very low water absorption and can be used in wet or underwater environments, such as ship slides, dock guards, etc.
4. Maintenance & Usage Recommendations
Regularly check surface wear: If used in high friction environments (such as sliding guides, conveyor components), the surface wear should be checked regularly and replaced in time.
Avoid excessive force: Especially in drilling holes and bolt fixings, avoid material rupture due to overtightening or uneven force.
Cleaning & Anti-pollution: Recycled UHMWPE is easy to adhere to dirt, so it should be cleaned regularly during use to avoid the accumulation of chemical pollutants that affect performance.
Outdoor use recommendations UV treatment: If used outdoors, UHMWPE with added UV stabilizers should be selected to extend its service life.