UHMW-PE ELS (Electrically Conductive Polyethylene – Ultra High Molecular Weight)

Electrally Conductive polyethyelene details.

UHMW-PE ELS offers the same main characteristics of Virgin Ultra High Molecoular weight, with higher resistance to UV rays, better wear and impact resistance. Moreover, chemical resistance and resistance to higher temperatures are improved too.

Strength point of this Polyethylene is for sure its conductive property, which transforms it in a very safety material in various applications areas. In many areas of industry plant parts can be charged electrostatically by means of friction. When these voltages discharge, dust and gases may be ignited by sparkovers and generate fire or explosions. This is the reason why Electrically conductive polyethylene could be the right solution.

ESD

With the acronym ESD we means the expression Electro Static Discharge and if, this expression, is used on plastic materials we mean a group of materials which, depending on their surface resistivity, could be defined electrically conductive, antistatic or static dissipative.

Plastic materials are, per definition, insulating materials. This classification, if we simplify electricity concept, is defined by surface resistivity, which in this case is higher than 1012  Ω.

If we need the transform plastic materials into electrically conductive materials, we need to add a selection of electrically active substances. These include, but may not be limited to, special conductive carbon black, carbon fibres, carbon nano tubes, or inherently conductive materials.

UHMW-PE ELS has a surface resistivity lower than 106  Ω and in can be so called electrically conductive. Plastic materials with a surface resistivity between 106  Ω and 1012  Ω are defined as antistatic or static dissipative.

ATEX compliance.

ATEX abbreviation means ATmosphere EXplosible. At the same time ATEX identify the European Directive 2014/34/EC concerning the placing on the market of explosion-proof electrical and mechanical equipment, components and protective systems.

Our electrically conductive polyethylene, which has a volume resistance of < 106 ohm, can be used in devices and protection systems that are subject to ATEX Directive 94/9/EC, provided they are appropriately earthed.

Miscellaneous information.

UHMW-PE ELS is available in black White colour can be achieved only within a certain dimension and upon request.

Electrically conductive Polyethylene in few words.

Special properties:

• permanently  conductive
• surface resistance < 10^4
• excellent wear resistance
• improved and optimized sliding friction coefficient
• ideal for areas with explosion hazards
• excellent dimensional stability
• very good noise absorption
• no absorption of humidity
• stabilized against UV rays
• suitable for contact with food (EU-Regulation).

Used in:

• Medical Packaging;
• Chemical Industry;
• Electronic Industry;
• Mining.

Applications:

• Various components for written industries.