Product Description
In the ever-evolving world of industrial technology, materials that
offer superior performance under extreme conditions are in high
demand. Among these, high-purity Si3N4 precision balls sintered for
maximum density stand out as a revolutionary advancement. These
ceramic balls are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of
industries ranging from aerospace to automotive, offering
unparalleled benefits in terms of durability, efficiency, and
reliability.
Silicon nitride (Si3N4) is a ceramic material renowned for its
exceptional mechanical and thermal properties. It is widely used in
the manufacturing of precision balls, which are integral components
in various types of bearings. These balls are sintered for maximum
density, ensuring a robust and reliable performance in high-stress
environments.
- High Heat Resistance: Si3N4 balls can withstand temperatures up to 1800°F (982°C),
making them ideal for high-temperature applications such as
aerospace and military sectors.
- Low Friction: The smooth surface of silicon nitride reduces friction, which
enhances the efficiency of bearings and extends their service life.
- Chemical and Corrosion Resistance: These balls are highly resistant to corrosion and chemical
attack, ensuring longevity even in harsh environments.
- Lightweight: Weighing 60% less than steel, Si3N4 balls reduce the centrifugal
force during bearing rotation, enabling faster operating speeds.
- Non-Magnetic and Electrically Insulative: These properties make them suitable for applications in magnetic
fields and electric motors, preventing interference and
electrolytic corrosion.
Silicon nitride precision balls are used across a variety of
industries due to their superior properties. Here are some key
applications:
In aerospace and defense, the need for materials that can endure
extreme conditions is paramount. Si3N4 precision balls are used in
aircraft engines and other critical components due to their ability
to maintain performance at high temperatures and their resistance
to wear and corrosion.
The automotive sector benefits significantly from the use of Si3N4
balls in hybrid and full ceramic bearings. These components enhance
the performance of electric and autonomous vehicles by reducing
friction, weight, and maintenance requirements.
In semiconductor manufacturing, precision is crucial. Si3N4 balls
are used in equipment that operates at high speeds with low
lubrication conditions, offering increased bearing life and reduced
maintenance costs.
As the demand for renewable energy sources like wind power
increases, so does the need for durable materials. Si3N4 balls are
used in wind turbine generators, where their strength and low
maintenance requirements help reduce the risk of unscheduled
maintenance.
The production of high-purity Si3N4 precision balls involves a
sophisticated manufacturing process that includes pressing and
sintering. This process ensures that the balls achieve maximum
density and uniformity, essential for their performance in
demanding applications.
Manufacturers adhere to strict quality standards, such as ISO
3290-2, to ensure the precision and reliability of Si3N4 balls.
These standards govern the dimensional accuracy, surface finish,
and material properties of the balls, ensuring they meet the
specific needs of various applications.
Compared to traditional steel balls, Si3N4 precision balls offer
several advantages:
- Higher Temperature Tolerance: Si3N4 can operate at much higher temperatures than steel, making
it suitable for extreme environments.
- Enhanced Durability: The wear resistance and hardness of Si3N4 extend the lifespan of
bearings, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Weight Reduction: The lightweight nature of Si3N4 reduces the overall weight of
components, contributing to energy efficiency in applications like
electric vehicles.
- Electrical and Magnetic Properties: The non-conductive and non-magnetic nature of Si3N4 eliminates
issues related to electrical interference and magnetic field
disturbances.
| Property | Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) | Steel (440C) | Zirconia (ZrO2) | Alumina (Al2O3) |
|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 3.2 | 7.8 | 6.0 | 3.9 |
| Hardness (HV) | 1,400–1,600 | 700–900 | 1,200–1,300 | 1,500–1,800 |
| Fracture Toughness (MPa·m½) | 6–7 | 15–20 | 7–10 | 3–4 |
| Compressive Strength (GPa) | 2.5–3.5 | 2.0–2.5 | 2.0–2.3 | 2.0–3.0 |
●Description:
Silicon Nitride Ceramic Ball is the most ideal bearing ball for
bearing applications, due to the excellent properties of silicon
nitride ceramics, it has many irreplaceable advantages comparing to
traditional steel materials, such as: high mechanical strength, low
wear loss, good self-lubrication, low density, high corrosion
resistance, good electrical insulation etc.
Therefore, Silicon Nitride Balls are mostly used for some harsh
working conditions: high speed/super speed bearings, high precision
bearings, bearings in vacuum, high/low temperature bearings.
Moreover, Silicon Nitride Ceramic Balls can also used as valve ball
or measurement balls in chemical pumps/high temperature
pumps/metdering pumps.
●Physical Properties:
Chemical Composition: | Si3N4≥95% |
Bulk Density: | 3.2±0.05g/cm3 |
Elastic Modulus: | 350GPa |
Hardness Vickers: | 1870HV |
Bending Strength: | 780MPa |
Fracture Toughness: | 7.2MPa·m1/2 |
Thermal Expansion Coefficient: | 3.2 10-6/K |
Thermal Conductivity: | 25W/(m·K) |
● Ball Sizes/Grade :
Size (mm) | Φ0.8-180 |
Grade | Vdws | SPH | Vdwl | Ra |
G3 | 0.05-0.08 | ≤0.08 | <0.13 | 0.01 |
G5 | 0.08-0.13 | ≤0.13 | <0.25 | 0.014 |
G10 | 0.15-0.25 | ≤0.25 | <0.5 | 0.02 |
G16 | 0.2-0.4 | ≤0.4 | <0.8 | <0.025 |
G20 | 0.3-0.5 | ≤0.5 | <1 | <0.032 |
G100 | 0.4-0.7 | 0.4-0.7 | <1.4 | <0.0105 |
Factory equipment
Exhibition & Partner
Case
Ship to South Korea
Ship to Spain
FAQ
1. What sizes and tolerances are available?
Diameter range: 0.5mm to 50mm (custom sizes possible).
Sphericity: As low as 0.1µm (Grade 5 for ultra-precision bearings).
Surface finish: Ra < 0.02µm (mirror polish for low friction).
2. Are silicon nitride balls FDA-approved for medical use?
Yes! Si3N4 is biocompatible (ISO 6474-1) and used in spinal implants, dental devices, and joint
replacements due to its antibacterial properties.
3. How do I choose the right Si3N4 balls for my application?
Consider:
Load & speed requirements (dynamic/static stress).
Temperature range (Si3N4 excels in high heat).
Chemical exposure (resistant to most acids/alkalis).
Electrical insulation needs (non-conductive).
