Catalysts are crucial in the production of HDPE because they influence the rate of polymerization and the final properties of the polymer. Ziegler-Natta catalysts, for instance, allow for the production of polymers with high molecular weight and low levels of branching, which contribute to the material's high density and strength. Metallocene catalysts, on the other hand, offer more precise control over the polymer structure, enabling the production of materials with specific characteristics for specialized applications.