Product Description
In the ever-evolving world of high-voltage systems, the demand for
reliable, efficient, and safe components is paramount. One such
innovation that has been making waves is the use of electrically
insulating ceramic balls. These advanced materials are not only
preventing arcing but also enhancing the overall performance of
high-voltage systems. This article delves into the significance of
electrically insulating ceramic balls, their advantages, and their
transformative impact on high-voltage systems.
Electrical arcing is a phenomenon where an electrical discharge
jumps between two points, potentially causing significant damage to
equipment. In high-voltage systems, arcing can lead to equipment
failure, increased maintenance costs, and even hazardous
situations. Traditional materials, such as steel, often fail to
provide adequate insulation, leading to frequent arcing issues.
Ceramic balls, particularly those made from zirconia and silicon
nitride, have emerged as a game-changer in preventing electrical
arcing. Their electrically insulating properties make them ideal
for applications in high-voltage systems.
Superior Electrical Insulation: Zirconia ceramic balls offer exceptional electrical insulation,
with resistance values ranging from 10^8 to 10^14 Ω·cm. This makes
them perfect for high-voltage applications where preventing short
circuits is crucial.
High Wear Resistance: These ceramic balls are known for their extreme hardness and wear
resistance, often compared to diamonds. This ensures longevity and
reliability in high-stress environments.
Temperature and Chemical Resistance: With a melting point of around 2700°C, zirconia ceramic balls can
withstand high temperatures without degrading. They also resist
chemical corrosion, making them suitable for harsh industrial
environments.
The use of electrically insulating ceramic balls in high-voltage
systems offers numerous advantages:
Enhanced System Performance: By preventing arcing, ceramic balls help maintain the integrity
of high-voltage systems, ensuring consistent performance and
reducing downtime.
Increased Equipment Lifespan: The durability and wear resistance of ceramic balls mean that
components last longer, reducing the need for frequent
replacements.
Energy Efficiency: Ceramic balls reduce friction and energy loss, contributing to
more efficient system operations.
Cost Savings: While the initial investment in ceramic balls may be higher, the
long-term savings from reduced maintenance and replacement costs
make them a cost-effective solution.
Ceramic balls are versatile and find applications across various
high-voltage systems:
Bearings in Motors: Ceramic hybrid bearings, which incorporate ceramic balls, are
used in motors with variable frequency drives (VFDs) to prevent
arcing and extend motor life.
High-Voltage Capacitors: As seen with KEMET's high-voltage ceramic capacitors, ceramic
balls help in arc protection, enabling smaller case sizes and
higher capacitance values.
Industrial Equipment: In sectors like aerospace and automotive, ceramic balls are used
in high-performance bearings and mechanical seals, offering
robustness and reliability.
The future of electrically insulating ceramic balls is promising,
with ongoing research and development aimed at enhancing their
performance. Innovations in material science are expected to unlock
new applications, particularly in emerging fields like sustainable
energy and advanced electronics.
As industries shift towards sustainable practices, the use of
ceramic balls aligns with green manufacturing goals. Their long
service life and energy-saving properties contribute to reduced
environmental impact, supporting global sustainability initiatives.
| 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).
