TABLE OF CONTENTS Unlike metals and other inorganics, plastics are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature. The mechanical, electrical, or chemical properties of plastics cannot be considered without knowing the temperature at which the values are obtained. The thermal properties of a polymer typically determine its low- and high-temperature applications, impact properties, and processing characteristics. Generally, temperature limitations of PE range between 180 and +90 C. HDPE has superior heat resistant characteristics (up to 900 C).
PE can be used at low temperatures, 18 C or less, without risk of brittle failure. Thus, a major application for certain PE piping formulations is low-temperature heat transfer applications, such as radiant floor heating, snow melting, ice rinks, geothermal ground source heat pump piping, and compressed air distribution. The applications where high-temperature properties of PE are of particular interest include sterilisation (particularly steam sterilisation), microwave ovenproof containers, and parts of dishwashers and washing machines that are subjected to hot water in the presence of detergents.
Scapa North America (Windsor, CT, USA) has introduced Duofoam VJ series of double-coated PE foam tapes, in order to provide superior performance in high-temperature bonding and mounting applications where heat resistance is critical. Double coated with a high-performance, pressure-sensitive adhesive system, Duofoam VJ series products provide excellent holding power and good tack, and bond well to a wide variety of surfaces including metals and engineered plastics. The products offer very good long-term ageing, resistance to environmental extremes, and high performance over a range of operating...
