P.B.A Industrial Supplies - Choosing the correct plastic material (PE)

Field of Application

Extremely resistant to wear and tear, and to chemicals. It is therefore used in many sectors of the industry, including the food industry

Characteristics

PE is characterized by its:

Extreme resistance to wearing.
Very high impact resistance, even at low temperatures.
Many fields of application together with chemicals.
Low water absorption and good barrier qualities.
Well-suited for use with food.
Can be used even at very low temperatures.

PE should not be used:

At high temperatures
If creep resistance is required.
If dimensional stability is required.
With strong oxidizing media or aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons.
If UV resistance is required (though it can be stabilized with black/grey shading).

Mechanical

PE's impact resistance is extremely high. This means that it can be subjected to extreme stress. Likewise, it deadens blows and vibrations. PE is very resistant to wear and tear when used with both solids and granular materials. Furthermore, PE is a low friction material and its smooth (unpolished) surface is very good at rejecting any film or coating.

Thermal

PE has a field of application within the following range of temperatures (-73°C to +66°C)

Physiological

PE can be used with foodstuffs, packaging and machinery. Products made of PE can receive BGA (Germany) or FDA approval (USA).

Chemical Resistance

PE excels in its resistance to many chemicals. PE does not absorb absorb water and has a good water vapour density. Aqueous solutions of salt, acids or bases can't attack PE. The one exception being strong oxidizing chemicals such as nitric acid, olium and halogens. Almost all organic detergents do not damage PE if under 60°C.

Weather and Ultraviolet Stability

Ultraviolet stability is harmful to PE, and outdoor use requires stabilizers, often by using carbon black.

Fire

PE is ignitable and burns with a light flame with a blue center. When on fire, PE drips, and when the flames have been extinguished the smoke smells of stearin. Ignition point is 340°C.

Finishing/Processing

Welding

Welding is an especially good way to join PE elements. Hot gas welding equipment can be used and a heat mirror. Spin welding is another alternative, as in ultrasonic sealing. High-frequency welding is not possible.

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