Product Description
In the world of engineering and machinery, the quest for
efficiency, longevity, and performance is never-ending. One of the
most significant advancements in this field is the development of
ultra-low wear Si3N4 balls, which have been proven to extend
bearing lifespan 10 times over traditional steel bearings. This
breakthrough is not just a leap in technology but a revolution that
promises to transform industries reliant on high-performance
bearings.
Silicon nitride (Si3N4) balls are a type of ceramic bearing ball
known for their exceptional mechanical properties. Unlike steel
balls, Si3N4 balls are lightweight, incredibly hard, and resistant
to high temperatures and corrosion. These characteristics make them
ideal for applications in demanding environments such as aerospace,
military, and high-speed machinery.
- High Heat Resistance: Silicon nitride balls can withstand temperatures up to 1800°F,
making them suitable for high-temperature applications.
- Low Friction: The smooth surface of Si3N4 balls ensures minimal friction,
reducing wear and increasing efficiency.
- Corrosion Resistance: These balls are resistant to most chemicals, making them ideal for
use in corrosive environments.
- Lightweight: Si3N4 balls are 60% lighter than steel, reducing centrifugal force
during operation and allowing for higher speeds.
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Si3N4 balls over steel
is their longevity. The ultra-low wear characteristics of silicon
nitride mean that bearings last significantly longer, reducing the
need for frequent replacements and maintenance. This longevity
translates to lower operational costs and increased uptime for
machinery.
In high-temperature environments, steel balls can expand and
degrade, leading to reduced performance. Si3N4 balls, however,
maintain their structural integrity even in extreme heat, making
them ideal for applications like gas turbines and automotive
engines.
The lightweight nature of Si3N4 balls means less energy is required
to move them. This reduction in weight not only improves efficiency
but also reduces the load on machinery, leading to longer service
life and lower energy consumption.
Si3N4 balls are electrically non-conductive, which prevents
electrolytic corrosion in electric motors and generators. This
property is particularly beneficial in applications involving
electric and autonomous vehicles, where maintaining the integrity
of the magnetic field is crucial.
Silicon nitride balls are increasingly becoming the material of
choice in various industries due to their unique properties. Here
are some of the key applications:
- Aerospace: Used in aircraft engines and other high-speed applications where
weight reduction and durability are critical.
- Military and Defense: Ideal for high-impact environments and applications requiring
superior mechanical properties.
- Automotive: Used in engines and other components to enhance performance and
reduce maintenance.
- Semiconductor Manufacturing: The non-magnetic properties of Si3N4 balls make them suitable for
environments with magnetic fields.
- Electric Vehicles: Their insulating properties make them ideal for use in electric
motor bearings, preventing premature failure due to electrolytic
corrosion.
While Si3N4 balls are more expensive than steel, their longer
lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements often offset the
initial cost. Industries that demand high performance and
reliability find the investment in silicon nitride balls to be
cost-effective in the long run.
| 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).
