: Hope you had clear skies last night, : Im wondering if anyone has used a material called UHMW as opposed to Teflon as a dob bearing material. It is supposed to have the same characteristics as Teflon. It's also less "expensive" than Tef. Any comments?

Hi Jeff:

UHMW and teflon are very different. Teflon is a liquid and will flow under pressure. I prefer UHMW for bearings because it is more stable. UHMW is a crossed link polymer and therefore a solid. One might think of it as a super wax. It has a lower melting point than teflon allthough you could still boil water in it. While UV resistant it will breakdown over years of exposure to the sun. I like to use it inside tubing as sliding bearings. Unlike teflon the bearings will stay firm and wobble free. Teflon is toxic if heated. UHMW is safer, can be cast and is flammable like wax when melted at about 330°F.

Have Fun, -Rick