Polyethylene (PE) is a lightweight, durable thermoplastic with a variable crystalline structure. One of the most widely produced plastics in the world, it can be found in bottles, bags, tubes, and toys. Ultra high molecular-weight polyethylene, commonly referred to as “UHMWPE” is a subset of PE with properties that are exceptionally well-suited to sealing applications. UHMWPE has a high modulus and a coefficient of friction comparable to that of PTFE, but with better abrasion resistance. It exhibits extremely low moisture absorption, and is highly resistant to many corrosive chemicals.
Key Properties of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE)
Moderate
Temperature
Range
Moderate
Media
Compatibility
Low
Coefficient
of Friction
High
Tensile
Strength
Bal Seal® UHMWPE Material Performance
Our PE sealing materials for rotary, reciprocating, and static applications are formulated to provide optimal performance and service life in your designs. Our offering ranges from virgin UHMWPE to precision blends that leverage the additive properties of fillers to meet specific temperature pressure, speed and wear requirements. UHMWPE sealing materials are available to meet USP Class VI and FDA compliance or compatibility requirements.
Temperature Resistance
(° fahrenheit)
Media Compatibility
(rating)
Friction
(µ at ambient temperature)
Tensile Strength
(psi at break)
UHMWPE Seal Applications
UHMWPE Technical Resources
Filled UHMW Polyethylene
(UP30)
UHMW Polyethylene
(UPC10)
Filled UHMW Polyethylene
(UP40)
UHMWPE Material FAQs
This material is used where its balance of friction, wear, temperature capability, and chemical compatibility aligns with the sealing requirements of the application.
Each Bal Seal material family offers different performance strengths. Selection depends on whether your priority is low friction, high strength, abrasion resistance, cryogenic performance, or chemical compatibility.
Yes. Bal Seal Engineering can recommend the right formulation based on your operating conditions, wear concerns, and performance targets.
Bal Seal material options are used across demanding applications including aerospace, medical, analytical, industrial, cryogenic, and clean environments depending on the specific formulation.
Yes. Bal Seal materials are used in custom spring-energized seals and related sealing components tailored to the geometry and operating conditions of the application.
Yes. Bal Seal Engineering works with OEM teams to evaluate performance requirements and recommend materials and designs for custom sealing challenges.
Need Help Selecting a Material?
Our engineering team can help evaluate material fit, performance tradeoffs, and application requirements to identify the right sealing solution.
