Balls manufactured from
a variety of ceramic materials are extremely resistant
to corrosion and abrasion. Ceramic Balls exhibit low
thermal conductivity and resistance to extreme temperatures
(some in excess of 3250°F). Bearing friction is less
likely to increase as temperature increases when using
ceramics and heat absorption is considerably less than
other materials allowing lower cooling requirements.
These qualities make ceramic balls useful for flow control,
metering and bearing applications in harsh environments.
Precision Ceramic Balls are available in the following
materials:
Alumina Oxide Balls
are resistant to most corrosive materials, however it
is not recommended for environments containing hydrochloric
and hydrofluoric acids or strong alkaline solutions.
Alumina Oxide’s maximum useful temperature is 3180°
F.
Ruby Sapphire Balls
are opaque red in color and frequently used in gauging
devices. Ruby Sapphire is resistant to most corrosive
material even at very high temperatures. Ruby Sapphire’s
maximum useful temperature is 3250° F.
Silicon Nitride Balls
are a new material suitable for applications where high
loads, high speeds and extreme temperatures are factors.
Long life and the need for no lubrication makes this
material very suitable for aviation applications. Silicon
Nitride is anti-magnetic and resistant to corrosion
by most substances.
Zirconia Balls
are inert to corrosive materials with the exception
of hydrofluoric acid and hot, concentrated sulfuric
acid. Zirconia has a maximum useful temperature of 1800°
F.
