UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) provided by Interstate Plastics is a common machinable plastic known for durability, versatility and cost-effectiveness as well as abrasion, impact and chemical resistances. Due to an extremely low coefficient of friction, its inherent lubricity minimizes heat-generating friction that tends to gradually destroy steel parts, and ensures smooth, noiseless operation.

Known for an extremely high molecular weight, UHMW features an unsurpassed combination of slickness, toughness and chemical resistance. UHMW's molecular weight ranges from 3.1 million to 100 million grams per mole, with an abrasion resistance that continues to improve as molecular weight increases. Machining UHMW plastic is easy with common woodworking tools, making it extremely cost effective, and it outperforms metal in many applications. High durability, low friction and wear resistance are key reasons why UHMW is the material of choice for many applications. UHMW plastics can be machined into virtually anything from small gears and bearings to huge sprockets. Virgin black UHMW sheet is NOT FDA compliant and should not be used for food processing applications.