UHMW Strips and Wear Tape
UHMW strips are slick, tough plastic wear surfaces. Here is where to buy them.
Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.
Where to buy
- Search AmazonLive search · amazon.com
- Search eBayLive search · ebay.com
- Google ShoppingLive search · google.com
- Search ZoroLive search · zoro.com
Plastics distributors and tape specialists sell UHMW by the foot or roll. Hardware stores may carry small adhesive strips for drawers and doors.
Professional insight
Maintenance techs pick UHMW by thickness and fastening method first. Color and brand come last.
- Thicker strip lasts longer under sliding conveyor loads.
- Countersink screws so heads sit below the surface.
- Leave expansion gaps; UHMW grows with heat.
- Rubber adhesive grips better on rough or cold surfaces.
Check the label
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Types
| Form | Typical use | Fastening |
|---|---|---|
| Thin film tape (3 to 20 mil) | Drawer slides, squeaks, chutes | Pressure sensitive adhesive |
| Adhesive wear strip (about 0.1 in) | Conveyor beds, guides | Adhesive backing |
| Plain strip (0.020 to 0.125 in) | Guide rails, wear pads | Screws, rivets or clips |
| Bar or thick strip | Truck beds, dock bumpers | Bolts with countersinks |
Common uses
- Freeing sticky wooden drawer runners.
- Lining chutes and hoppers so material slides.
- Guide rails on packaging and bottling lines.
- Cutting rattles between tight fitting panels.
- Easing door jambs and sliding gates.
Setup tips
- 1Degrease the mounting face with isopropyl alcohol first.
- 2Cut the strip to length with a sharp utility knife.
- 3Peel the liner a little at a time as you lay it.
- 4Press firmly with a roller along the full length.
- 5Allow the adhesive to set before loading it.
UHMW versus PTFE strips
Both are low friction. UHMW resists abrasion and puncture far better and costs less. PTFE handles much higher heat.
Common questions
- Can I glue UHMW with normal glue?
- Rarely. UHMW resists most glues. Buy it with factory adhesive or fasten it mechanically.
- What thickness should I buy?
- Thin tape suits light sliding. Heavy sliding loads need thicker strip.
- Is UHMW safe near food?
- Many grades are food grade. Confirm the listing states FDA compliance.