Material Selection Guide: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, and Titanium Alloy Comparison
Compare aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium for CNC machining. Analyze strength, weight, cost
Wear-resistant and self-lubricating — composed even in the cold
PE (polyethylene) is one of the most widely used general-purpose plastics. HDPE (high-density polyethylene) offers better rigidity and chemical resistance; UHMW-PE (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) wear resistance reaches 7 times that of carbon steel, with low friction coefficient and no water absorption.
PE is soft with a low melting point (HDPE approximately 130°C), requiring extremely sharp tools and effective heat dissipation during machining; otherwise material smearing, surface tearing and dimensional springback are likely.
PE is non-toxic, odorless, food-contact compliant, and performs excellently at low temperatures (as low as -100°C), widely used in food machinery, conveying equipment, tank linings and low-temperature parts. We specialize in batch production, 100 pcs MOQ, lead time 15-25 days.
The following table lists typical mechanical, thermal, and physical properties for this material. Actual values may vary by grade and temper.
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|
We stock multiple grades for different application needs. Each grade offers distinct properties optimised for specific uses — click to view detailed specifications, machining advice and typical applications.
HDPE is stiffer and more chemical resistant than LDPE and is the most widely used PE grade.
View Details UHMWUHMW-PE with outstanding wear and impact resistance, the first choice for conveying and wear parts.
View Details Low DensityLDPE is soft and low-temperature resistant, suited to gaskets and flexible parts.
View Details Food GradeFood-contact compliant PE, non-toxic and odourless, for food machinery and packaging equipment.
View Details UV ResistantUV-stabilised for prolonged outdoor use, slowing ageing and embrittlement.
View Details ConductiveConductive grade with controlled surface resistivity for ESD protection and electronics handling.
View DetailsA selection of parts machined from this material.
This material is widely used across multiple industries for various applications, from precision prototypes to end-use production parts.
Surgical instruments, housings
Structural brackets, panels
Engine components, housings
Heat sinks, enclosures
Motor mounts, brackets
Fixtures, jigs, tooling
Frames, handles, cases
Fittings, valves, hardware
| Finish Type | Description | Ra (typical) |
|---|
The questions engineers ask most about machining, surface quality and selecting this material.
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Send your STEP / DWG / PDF drawing and get a detailed quote with free DFM analysis and process recommendations within 2 hours. No minimum order — from 1 piece.