The Pros and Cons of Weldable vs Non-Weldable UHMWPE Liners

At a Glance:

• Weldable UHMWPE liners can be shaped to fit the equipment’s surface, providing a seamless fit for heavy-duty applications.
• Weldable liners reduce downtime and maintenance costs, making them a reliable long-term investment.
• Non-weldable liners are easy to install using fasteners, but may develop gaps and lose stability over time.
• Non-weldable liners are cost-effective upfront; however, they may require more frequent maintenance.

Choosing the right liner is crucial for maintaining your fleet’s optimal performance and safety. Without the right liners, trucks and equipment can experience wear and tear, leading to material buildup, slow unloading, and costly downtime.

UHMWPE liners are an excellent solution for preventing such problems. Known for their durability, low friction, and resistance to wear and corrosion, UHMWPE liners are ideal for use in the mining, construction, agriculture, and waste management industries.

There are two main variants of UHMWPE liners: weldable and non-weldable. Weldable UHMWPE liners can be welded and shaped precisely to fit equipment surfaces, providing a secure and seamless fit. On the other hand, non-weldable liners are cut into surface shapes and installed with bolts, screws, or adhesives.

In this article, we will look at the pros and cons of weldable and non-weldable liners to help you determine which option provides the best application for your fleet.

Pros and Cons of Weldable Liners

Weldable UHMWPE liners are a popular choice for heavy-duty applications due to their strength, durability, and customisability. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of using weldable liners in your fleet:

Weldable Liner Pros:

• Seamless and Strong Surface: Weldable UHMWPE liners can be shaped to fit the truck bed or equipment without cutting, to create a continuous, smooth surface with no gaps, weak spots, or rough corners during installation. Welding also enhances durability and extends the liner’s lifespan under heavy-duty conditions.
• Perfect Fit for Complex Equipment: Weldable liners can be shaped to fit the unique surfaces of trucks, hoppers, dump bodies, and other equipment across various industries. This custom fit ensures complete coverage, preventing gaps in the equipment surface. This way, the equipment works more efficiently and experiences less wear.

• Lower Maintenance Over Time: Once installed, welded liners remain securely in place for an extended period without shifting or loosening. This prevents the need for frequent maintenance, adjustments, and repairs. As a result, welded liners reduce downtime, ultimately saving fleet operators time and money.
• Improved Material Flow: Welded UHMWPE liners have a smooth surface that lets bulk materials slide smoothly. Unloading becomes faster and safer with low tipping angles, increasing productivity while reducing strain on equipment.

Weldable Liner Cons:

• Detailed Installation Process: Proper installation is crucial for the integrity of welded UHMWPE liners. Mistakes during installation can lead to a poor fit, which may negatively impact performance. To prevent this, collaborate with certified technicians and use the right weld wire and accessories.
• Slightly Higher Upfront Cost: Weldable liners usually have a higher upfront cost than non-weldable truck liners. While this may be a concern for operations with limited budgets, the higher upfront expense leads to long-term savings due to reduced maintenance, fewer replacements, and less downtime.

Pros and Cons of Non-Weldable Liners

Below are the main pros and cons of a non-weldable liner to help you decide if it suits your fleet’s operational requirements.

Non-Weldable Liner Pros:

• Easy and Quick to Install: Non-weldable liners have a straightforward bolt-on installation process, eliminating the need for welding tools or specialised skills. It speeds up the setup, making it beneficial for fleets that require quick installation.
• Lower Initial Cost: These liners typically cost less initially, making them appealing for fleets with limited budgets or short-term needs. While the initial cost savings look appealing, it’s important to consider the long-term costs associated with frequent maintenance and replacements.
• Easy Replacement and Removal: Bolted liners can be quickly replaced when damaged or worn, without the need for specialised tools. However, frequent replacements can disrupt workflow and increase overall downtime if issues occur frequently.

Non-Weldable Liner Cons:

• Weak Points and Gaps: Over time, bolts and fasteners can loosen due to constant vibration and repeated unloading cycles. As a result, the liners can shift out of place, creating gaps and reducing liner stability. This can also lead to both the liner and the equipment wearing faster.
• Frequent Maintenance Needs: Non-weldable truck liners require regular inspections and bolt tightening to ensure they remain secure. The frequent maintenance takes up labour time, disrupts schedules, and can lead to expensive fleet downtime in the long run.
• Reduced Material Flow and Safety Risks: Gaps between panels can trap materials such as wet soil or grains, leading to a buildup inside the truck body.
• Inconsistent Performance Across Equipment: Since non-weldable liners rely on bolts and standard panel sizes, they may not always fit perfectly on different types of equipment across various industries.

Choosing the Right Liner for Your Fleet

The efficiency and performance of your operations depend on the liners, making liner selection a crucial strategic task.

Weldable UHMWPE liners offer strength and long-term reliability for heavy-duty trucks and equipment. They help reduce downtime, enhance efficiency, and lower overall maintenance costs, making them a long-term investment.

Non-weldable truck liners can be an effective option for those seeking a short-term, cost-effective lining solution. Though easy to install, they don’t match the durability and performance of weldable liners, particularly in rough working conditions.

Looking for a dependable liner for your fleet? Contact a reliable UHMWPE liner supplier for expert guidance, to explore your options, and ensure you select the best liners for your operational requirements.