Also called "plastic lumber," HDPE is a lightweight but robust thermoplastic, valued when moisture absorption must remain minimal and impact resistance is essential. Ideal as wood substitute in challenging environments (marine, outdoor, washdown), it features a textured finish on both faces.
Our HDPE parts are CNC machined for consistent precision; small holding tabs may be used to secure parts during cutting—plan for them in your models for optimal finish. Non-toxic and non-staining material, compatible with many food and wet equipment applications.
What is HDPE?
HDPE (high-density polyethylene) belongs to the polyolefin family. Its combination of impact resistance / low water absorption / good chemical resistance makes it a reference choice for marine surfaces, partitions, bins, light structural components, washers, and shims. Commonly used as wood replacement in wet environments.
Key Characteristics
Finish: Light texture on both faces ("marine board"). Visible face in rendering is treated as top during machining.
Process: Clean CNC machining/cutting with typical tolerance ±0.005"; holes, counterbores, and functional pockets possible.
Performance: Very low moisture absorption, excellent impact resistance, good abrasion resistance and common cleaning product resistance.
Hygiene: Non-toxic, non-staining; sterilizes/washes easily—suitable for food environments depending on grade.
Durability: Unaffected by mold, mildew, and rot; excellent performance in wet environments. UV-stabilized grades available depending on color.
Holding tabs: Small tabs may remain at perimeter to ensure precision; light deburring after cutting.
What can be made with HDPE?
Marine surfaces and partitions, deck equipment, bilge components.
Bins, lids, bottoms, shims, and light structural spacers.
Countertops, cutting boards, guards, and linings.
Outdoor signage, light bumpers, guides, and ramps.
Washers, chain guides, anti-friction plates, and assembly components.
Design Best Practices
Provide necessary clearance for polyolefin thermal expansion (coefficient higher than metals and wood).
Prefer mechanical assemblies (screws, inserts, spacers); bonding is difficult without pretreatment (low surface energy).
Internal radii rather than sharp corners to limit stress concentrations and improve finish.
In CNC cutting, use free-chip strategies; avoid prolonged heating and excessively low feeds.
Generally good chemical resistance to common solvents, detergents, and dilute acids/bases; avoid strong oxidizers and aromatic hydrocarbons.