Answers To Common Questions About HDPE

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Here we’re tackling some of the more common questions we get asked about HDPE.

High Density PolyEthylene (also know as HDPE ) is a really common plastic that you might see on a daily basis without knowing it.

It has a huge range of uses and applications, so we’re here to tackle some of the questions our customer ask about HDPE:

Can it be used outdoors?

Yes! All of our black HDPE is well suited for use outdoors, being durable and resistant to environmental factors such as sunlight and rain. Our standard Natural (white) HDPE sheets are not, but we do carry alternatives such as white BoatBoard which is perfect for use outdoors. If you’re unsure about a specific type of HDPE, just get in touch and we’ll steer you in the right direction.

Can it be used in or around water/moisture?

Absolutely. One of the most impressive features of HDPE is its excellent moisture resistance, which makes it a common material for use in things such as pipes, storage tanks and liquids handling.

Is it safe to use in food contact applications?

It is! Many of our grades of HDPE have been tested and approved for food contact by the FDA (US Food & Drug Administration). We even carry a grade specifically made for cutting boards. If you’re wanting to check about a particular grade or colour, just get in touch with our team.

Do I need any special tools to cut HDPE?

Not really. Most tools for metal or woodworking (circular saws, drills, routers etc.) can be used to cut HDPE. Just keep in mind that adequate safety precautions should be taken, including swarf and dust extraction, as well as cooling if it’s thick sheets you’re cutting. Our team can provide PDF machining guides from the manufacturer if needed.

Can HDPE used for a planter box?

Yes! As long as you select a suitable grade for outdoor use. HDPE is non-toxic, resistant to moisture, great for use outdoor, easy to clean and simple to cut and work with.

Is HDPE slippery, compared to metal?

Yes, HDPE is more slipper than most types of metals because it has a lower coefficient of friction. HDPE also has a very smooth finish which helps reduce friction. We also carry special grades with very low friction, such as UHMWPE (PE1000), for applications such as bulk materials handling, or manufacturing, where those properties are important.

Is it strong?

HDPE has a high tensile strength and impact resistance, making in tough and resistant in a wide range of applications.

How heavy is HDPE?

HDPE is light when compared to other materials. It has a density of 0.96, which is a lot lower than steel (+/- 7.85), aluminium (+/- 2.7) or even acrylic (1.19).

Is HDPE recyclable?

Yes, HDPE as a material can, and is, regularly recycled. When considering recycling of HDPE, we suggest you check with your local authorities or recycling providers about what their recycling capabilities are for HDPE.

If there’s anything we haven’t covered here that you’d like to know, reach out to our team here.

Click here to view our huge range of HDPE products.