UHMW, also known as UHMW-PE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic material, with a continuous use temperature range of up to 180° F (82° C). It is categorized as an engineering material, and offers a unique combination of wear and corrosion resistance, a low-friction surface, and high impact strength. UHMW exhibits very low moisture absorption, and retains key physical properties at temperatures as low as minus-22° F (minus-30° C). It offers very good electrical insulating properties, moderate mechanical strength and stiffness, and excellent machinability. It is an excellent general-purpose material which offers performance properties that make it effective in a tremendous range of applications, particularly food handling solutions, conveyance mechanisms and material handling, and packaging solutions where wear resistance and durability are crucial.