Like plastics and other non-metals, ceramic balls are available in a host of compositions and formulations. This data sheet covers many of the general properties shared by ceramic balls, and lists specific characteristics of different materials.

General Characteristics:
As a rule, ceramic balls resist corrosion and abrasion extremely well. They also have low thermal conductivity, and a high resistance to heat. Ruby sapphire material can withstand extended exposure to temperatures in excess of 3250°F. These qualities make ceramic balls useful for flow control, metering, and bearing applications.

Applications:
Check Valves - As check valves, ceramic balls are extremely hard, resistant to abrasion, and immune to furnace atmospheres. Choose a ceramic ball where heat, corrosion, and/or abrasion resistance is needed.

Flowmeters - Some ceramics are used on flowmeters where the ball position on a scale indicates rate of flow. The red opaque color of ruby sapphire makes this material ideal for flowmeters. Ruby sapphire balls are also used in gaging devices because of their great resistance to wear and their minimal thermal expansion.

Bearings - The low coefficient of thermal expansion makes ceramics attractive alternatives to metals in certain bearing applications. Compared to steel, their coefficient of thermal expansion is just 25% Ñ making them less likely to increase bearing friction as heat increases. Additionally, since ceramic balls absorb less heat, cooling requirements for ceramic bearings are much lower.

Materials and Grades:
ITI produces ceramic balls from zirconia, silicon carbide, alumina oxide, ruby sapphire, and silicon nitride. Standard sizes range from 0.125" to 3.0" and smaller and larger sizes can be custom-made to your specifications. Since they are used in both bearings and valves, ITI produces both valve and bearing grade balls. Refer to our Ball Grade table for the exact tolerances available.

Precision and Quality:
ITI's high level of quality, combined with the great wear and heat resistance of ceramic balls make them integral parts in many designs. Your ITI representative will be glad to help you specify the best ceramic material for your design.

Remember: make ITI your first choice when considering Ruby Saphire Balls. ITI Ball has extensive Ruby Saphire Balls experience and can satisfy your rigorous requirements!

Ruby Saphire Balls Chart