Meaning of HDPE

What is HDPE?

HDPE is the abbreviation for High Density Polyethylene, in Dutch means This: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is one of the most widely used plastics in the world, and also one of the most durable plastics. The plastic is made from petroleum. The fact that HDPE is so sustainable is due to the fact that it is fully recyclable and has a long lifespan. In addition, HDPE is produced with low environmental impact.

High density, lower pressure

Of the manufactured polyethylene, 25% falls under the HDPE type. The remaining 75% falls under LDPE, or Low Density Polyethylene. This is the soft variant of polyethylene. HDPE has a high density, but is manufactured under low pressure. This involves the use of a catalyst. At the low pressure, linear chains are formed. This makes the plastic crystalline. This high density results in greater rigidity, more hardness, better strength and greater wear resistance.

Unlike HDPE, LDPE has a low density and is manufactured under a high pressure of about 200 MPa (i.e. 2000 bar). This manufacturing process results in a lower density of 0.91 to 0.94 g/cm3. The polymers start to exhibit a high degree of branching under high pressure, this causes the substance to become low crystalline.

HDPE sheets

Among other things, HDPE is made into sheets. HDPE sheets are used in all kinds of sectors in the life industry, e.g. equipment construction, chemical industry, energy sector and fine mechanical industry. Sheets are available in various colours, including black and natural.

The benefits of HDPE sheets are:

• High impact resistance at low temperatures;
• Lower firmness and stiffness than PP-H;
• Very high chemical resistance;
• Available in various colours;
• Maximum temperature in continuous use approx +80°C, when the moulded part is not subjected to significant mechanical stress;
• Very low water absorption & physiologically safe;
• Good electrical insulating properties;
• Simple handling options.

Online plastics specialist

There are several suppliers of HDPE sheets online, it is recommended to order the sheets from a online plastics specialist. This will ensure you receive high-quality HDPE sheets and you can request professional advice if required.