pic: Concept 8wd Drivetrain

[AndyB]

Originally Posted by rc_cola1323

Quick Question, why not uhmw for the wheels. Just wondering, I've heard of teams having success with them.

-rc

UHMW and HDPE are two very similar materials. They do have differences though. HDPE stands for High Density Polyethylene which is long strands of ethylene monomers. UHMW-PE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) is similar, but has even longer monomers, generally making it stronger with better wear properties. HDPE will hold it's shape a little bit better and some argue that it can be machined easier. UHMW tends to be a bit more expensive than HDPE depending on the scenerio.

Honestly, when it comes to something like a wheel, using one or the other shouldn't make a big difference. It probably comes down to what you can get your hands on easier.