Product Description
In the ever-evolving world of defense and aerospace technology, the demand for materials that can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining performance is paramount. Among these materials, military grade Si3N4 balls have emerged as a critical component, trusted for their exceptional properties and reliability.
Silicon nitride (Si3N4) balls are ceramic balls known for their remarkable mechanical properties and resistance to harsh environments. These balls are made from silicon nitride, a material celebrated for its high hardness, strength, and excellent wear resistance. With a low density and superior thermal stability, Si3N4 balls are ideal for high-performance applications where traditional materials like steel fall short.
- Lightweight: Si3N4 balls are approximately 60% lighter than steel balls, reducing centrifugal force and wear during high-speed operations.
- High Hardness: With a hardness twice that of steel, these balls maintain their strength and integrity even at high temperatures, up to 1800°F.
- Corrosion Resistance: They exhibit excellent resistance to chemical attacks, making them suitable for demanding environments.
- Thermal Shock Resistance: Si3N4 balls can withstand rapid temperature changes without losing performance.
- Electrical Insulation: These balls are non-conductive, providing an advantage in applications requiring electrical insulation.
In aerospace, the need for lightweight and durable materials is critical. Si3N4 balls are extensively used in aerospace bearings due to their ability to reduce weight and increase the lifespan of components. Their superior surface finish and low density contribute to reduced friction and extended bearing life, which is crucial for high-speed aerospace applications.
Military applications demand materials that can endure extreme conditions. Si3N4 balls are employed in various military equipment, including high-precision bearings and components in missile systems, where reliability under stress is non-negotiable. Their resistance to wear and corrosion ensures that military equipment functions optimally even in harsh environments.
Turbine engines in aircraft require components that can withstand high temperatures and rotational speeds. Si3N4 balls are used in these engines due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and thermal stability, enhancing engine efficiency and reducing maintenance needs.
Instruments used in defense and aerospace require precision and reliability. Si3N4 balls are incorporated into precision measuring tools and optical systems, where their stability and hardness contribute to accurate and dependable measurements.
- Reduced Weight: The lightweight nature of Si3N4 balls minimizes the stress on components, leading to improved performance and reduced energy consumption.
- Enhanced Durability: With higher hardness and wear resistance, Si3N4 balls have a longer lifespan compared to steel balls.
- Superior Performance in Extreme Conditions: Their ability to operate at high temperatures and resist chemical corrosion makes them suitable for challenging environments.
- Non-Magnetic and Electrically Insulating: These properties are particularly beneficial in applications where magnetic interference and electrical conductivity are concerns.
As technology advances, the demand for materials that offer superior performance while reducing weight and maintenance costs will continue to grow. Si3N4 balls are poised to play a significant role in the future of aerospace and defense, with ongoing research focused on enhancing their properties and expanding their applications.
Ongoing innovations in silicon nitride technology aim to improve the material's properties further, making Si3N4 balls even more versatile and efficient. Research is focused on enhancing the material's toughness and developing new manufacturing techniques to reduce costs and increase accessibility.
| 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).
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