The numbers refer to the molecular weight of the material. PE500 has a molecular weight of approximately 500,000 g/mol, while PE1000 has a molecular weight of 1,000,000 g/mol or higher.
PE500 is easier to machine and more cost-effective, whereas PE1000 offers superior abrasion resistance and impact strength for more extreme applications.

Yes. PE500 is physiologically inert and generally complies with FDA and EU 10/2011 regulations. It is a industry standard for commercial chopping boards and food processing components because it does not harbour bacteria, is easy to clean, and does not affect the taste or smell of food products.

Standard PE500 is susceptible to UV degradation over long periods, which can lead to brittleness. For permanent outdoor use, we recommend the UV-stabilised (usually Black) grade, which contains carbon black or UV inhibitors to protect the polymer chains from sunlight damage.

PE500 excels in cold environments, maintaining high impact resistance at temperatures as low as -100°C. However, it has a relatively low heat deflection temperature. For long-term use, the maximum service temperature is typically around 80°C. Beyond this, the material may lose structural rigidity.

PE500 has a very low surface energy which makes it extremely difficult to bond with standard adhesives. For structural joins, mechanical fastening (screws, bolts) or plastic welding (hot gas or extrusion welding) are the preferred and most reliable methods.

While both are polyethylenes, PE500 has higher molecular density, which provides significantly better abrasion resistance and a lower coefficient of friction.
This means PE500 wear strips will last longer and require less power to move items across their surface compared to standard HDPE.

No. PE500 has a water absorption rate of less than 0.01%.
This dimensional stability makes it ideal for marine applications or components in "wash-down" zones, as it will not swell, warp, or degrade when submerged or exposed to high humidity.

PE500 machines beautifully with standard high-speed steel (HSS) woodworking or metalworking tools.
Because it has a low melting point, it is vital to ensure sharp tools and high feed rates to prevent the material from melting and gumming up the cutter.

PE500 offers excellent resistance to most acids, alkalis, and solvents. It is particularly resilient against cleaning chemicals used in the food industry. However, it can be attacked by strong oxidising acids and may swell when in prolonged contact with certain aromatic hydrocarbons or chlorinated solvents.

Yes, PE500 is a thermoplastic and is 100% recyclable. Offcuts and end-of-life components can be granulated and reprocessed, although it is often recycled into lower-grade "regenerated" sheets for non-critical applications like garden furniture or protection boards.