Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene pipes are renowned for their excellent wear resistance. Its wear resistance is much higher than that of general metal and plastic products, specifically manifested as:
It is 6.6 times that of carbon steel, 5.5 times that of stainless steel, and 27.3 times that of brass.
17.9 times that of phenolic resin, 6 times that of nylon, and 5 times that of polytetrafluoroethylene.
Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene pipes contain waxy substances and have self lubrication properties. Their friction coefficient (196N, 2 hours) is only 0.219MN/m (GB3 takes 960), and their self lubrication performance is better than steel or brass lubricated with oil. Especially in places with harsh environments, high levels of dust and sediment, the super executive’s self lubrication performance is more fully demonstrated. Not only can it move freely, but it also protects related work from wear or tear.
Comparison of experimental data
Under the same pipe diameter, flow rate, test material, and concentration conditions, the results showed that the wear resistance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes far exceeded that of other materials. Specifically, the average annual wear thickness of glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes is 11.5424mm/year, engineering grade polypropylene pipes (PP) are 13.5828mm/year, while ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes (UHMW-PE) are only 5.0104mm/year, and steel pipes (A3) are 36.2424mm/year. This indicates that the wear resistance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes is seven times that of steel pipes.
Experimental conditions and parameters
In some experiments, the M-200 friction and wear tester is used for ring block friction and wear tests, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene mortar wear tests are used. The experimental conditions include a specimen load of 200N, a ring speed of 200rpm, and a 10 minute operation time each time.
In the mortar wear test, a corrosion wear testing machine is used, and the principle of the testing device involves low-speed and high-speed (such as 683rpm) rotation. The particle size of quartz sand is 40-70 mesh, and the sand/water ratio is 1:4 (volume ratio).
empirical conclusion
The wear resistance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes is closely related to their molecular weight. Generally speaking, the higher the molecular weight, the stronger the wear resistance. When the molecular weight exceeds a certain value (such as 106), the wear resistance tends to stabilize.
Appropriate density and efficient processing techniques can also significantly improve the wear resistance of materials.
The wear resistance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes may vary under different operating conditions. For example, under the influence of certain additives, wear resistance may be improved or decreased.
The wear resistance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes is highly suitable for applications in mining transportation and dredging
Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene pipes exhibit excellent wear resistance, far surpassing other traditional materials. These data provide strong support for the application of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes in mining, dredging, chemical, power and other fields.
The recognition of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes in the dredging field is extremely high, mainly due to their unique performance characteristics, such as wear resistance, impact resistance, chemical stability, self-lubricating properties, and lightweight and easy installation.
Performance characteristics
Wear resistance: The wear resistance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes is much higher than that of general metal and plastic pipes, and they can withstand long-term erosion by particles such as sediment, maintaining the smoothness and stability of the pipes.
Impact resistance: This type of pipeline can maintain stability and is not easily broken or damaged when subjected to external impact, ensuring the smooth progress of dredging projects.
Chemical stability: It can resist the erosion of various chemical substances, including corrosive media such as acids and alkalis, and adapt to complex water quality and soil environments.
Self lubrication: The smooth inner wall reduces the resistance of materials in the pipeline, improves conveying efficiency, and reduces the risk of blockage and wear.
Lightweight and easy to install: relatively lightweight, easy to handle and install, reducing construction difficulty and cost.
Application effect
The application effect of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes is significant in dredging projects. It can not only improve transportation efficiency, reduce energy consumption and maintenance costs, but also extend the service life of pipelines and lower overall operating costs.
Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene pipes also have excellent chemical stability and self-lubricating properties. It can resist the erosion of various chemical substances, including corrosive media such as acids and alkalis, and adapt to complex water quality and soil environments. At the same time, its smooth inner wall reduces the resistance of materials in the pipeline and improves the conveying efficiency. In the process of gravel transportation, this characteristic helps to reduce the wear of gravel on pipelines and extend the service life of pipelines.
How to control the service life and maintenance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene pipes
1. Material quality
Molecular weight: The molecular weight of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene is one of the key factors affecting its service life. Generally speaking, the higher the molecular weight, the better the wear resistance, impact resistance, and other properties, and the longer the service life.
Additives: The types and quantities of antioxidants, anti UV agents, and other additives added during the production process can also affect the service life of pipelines. High quality additives can significantly improve the aging resistance of pipelines and extend their service life.
2. Manufacturing process
Temperature control: Temperature control during the manufacturing process has a significant impact on the performance and service life of pipelines. Excessive or insufficient temperature can lead to a decrease in pipeline performance and affect its service life.
Pressure treatment: Appropriate pressure treatment can enhance the density and mechanical strength of pipelines, and improve their service life.
3. Performance testing
Static hydraulic test: By simulating the pressure environment of pipelines in actual use, the pressure resistance and long-term static hydraulic strength of pipelines are tested to evaluate their service life.
Wear resistance test: Using specific abrasives and equipment, simulate the wear of pipelines when transporting abrasives such as gravel, and test the wear resistance of pipelines. The better the wear resistance, the longer the service life.
Impact resistance test: By simulating the impact load that the pipeline may experience in actual use, the impact resistance performance of the pipeline is tested. The stronger the impact resistance, the less likely the pipeline is to break or deform when subjected to external impact.
4. Usage conditions
Transport medium: Different transport media have different impacts on the service life of pipelines. For example, transporting corrosive media can accelerate the corrosion and aging of pipelines, reducing their service life.
Temperature: The operating temperature is also an important factor affecting the service life of pipelines. Generally speaking, the higher the operating temperature, the faster the aging rate of the pipeline and the shorter its service life.
Pressure: The greater the pressure that the pipeline is subjected to, the higher its mechanical strength requirements, and its service life may also be affected.
5. Maintenance and upkeep
Regular inspection: Regularly inspecting and maintaining pipelines to promptly identify and address potential issues can extend their service life.
Cleaning and maintenance: Keep the inside and outside of the pipeline clean to avoid the accumulation of dirt and impurities that can damage the pipeline.
