HDPE fittings, flanges, and tank liner panels are specified for chemical storage and mixing tanks handling acids, alkalis, and organic process chemicals. HDPE resists a broad range of process chemicals at ambient and moderately elevated temperatures without corroding or contaminating the contents.
HDPE is the primary material for chemical processing plastic components. HDPE resists most dilute and concentrated acids (including HCl and H₂SO₄), most alkalis (including NaOH), and a broad range of organic solvents at ambient temperatures. Its chemical resistance profile, combined with easy machinability and food-contact grades for regulated applications, makes it the first-choice material for chemical processing plastic parts.
UHMW is specified in chemical processing applications where abrasion resistance is also required — chemical slurry handling, abrasive chemical conveyance, and applications where the process stream contains solid abrasives in a corrosive carrier fluid.
For specific chemical compatibility, the operating temperature and concentration are the critical variables. HDPE's resistance to a given chemical can vary significantly with temperature and concentration. Pepco recommends confirming specific compatibility at the inquiry stage for non-standard process chemistries. For waste water and treatment plant applications with overlapping chemical resistance requirements, see Pepco's waste water page.
HDPE has broad chemical resistance to most dilute and concentrated acids (hydrochloric, sulfuric, nitric at moderate concentrations), alkalis (sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide), and many organic solvents. HDPE is not recommended for halogenated solvents (chlorinated compounds) or aromatic hydrocarbons at elevated temperatures. For specific process chemistry, provide the chemical, concentration, and temperature at inquiry — Pepco will confirm compatibility or recommend an alternative.
Pepco manufactures chemical-resistant HDPE and engineered plastic components for chemical processing operations in Alberta and Western Canada. Tank fittings, pump components, custom chemical-resistant parts, and structural components — send your specs and request a quote.
