Polyethylene Balls (PE) for Floats, Valves and Light-Duty Mechanisms
REDHILL supplies polyethylene balls in HDPE and UHMW-PE. These materials combine low weight with low water absorption and resistance to many chemicals. As a result, they suit fluid handling, instruments and lightly loaded mechanisms.
Key Technical Specifications
The values below describe typical unfilled materials. However, the grade, additives and test conditions affect the final properties.
- Material Options: HDPE and UHMW-PE.
- Structure: Semi-crystalline thermoplastic.
- Hardness: Approximately 60–70 Shore D.
- Density: Approximately 0.93–0.96 g/cm³.
- Typical Upper Service Temperature: Approximately 80°C, subject to grade, load and exposure time.
- Electrical and Magnetic Properties: Unfilled grades provide electrical insulation and show no magnetic response.
Benefits of HDPE and UHMW-PE Balls
Solid, unfilled polyethylene balls float in water. Therefore, they offer a lightweight option for floats and level-control devices.
HDPE suits general float and fluid-handling applications. In addition, UHMW-PE offers high abrasion resistance and impact toughness for moving parts.
Low water absorption helps limit changes in size in wet conditions. However, sustained load and heat can cause creep. Therefore, account for deformation when setting clearances.
Applications of Polyethylene Balls
- Valves and Pumps: Low-mass check balls and closing elements.
- Floats and Instruments: Water-level indicators and suitable flow devices.
- Light-Duty Bearings and Guides: Rolling elements for low-load mechanisms.
- Food-Handling and Marine Equipment: Selected grades for the specified contact and cleaning conditions.
Also, check chemical compatibility with the fluid, concentration and working temperature. Dry running depends on the material, load, speed and contact surface.
Available Grades and Sizes
- Precision Classes: GI, GII and GIII, subject to the agreed tolerance specification.
- Diameter Range: 1/16 in–4 in, approximately 1.59 mm–101.6 mm.
Availability depends on the material, diameter and precision class. Finally, send us your PE grade, size, quantity and working conditions so we can confirm suitable options and lead time.