PMMA Balls (Acrylic) for Flow Indicators and Visual Instruments
REDHILL supplies PMMA balls, also known as acrylic balls, for flow indicators, valves and instruments. They combine high transparency with low weight. As a result, they suit designs where users need to see the ball or monitor its movement.
Key Technical Specifications
The values below describe typical clear PMMA. However, the grade, color and test conditions affect the final properties.
- Composition: PMMA, or polymethyl methacrylate.
- Structure: Amorphous thermoplastic.
- Hardness: Approximately 90 Shore D, depending on grade and test conditions.
- Density: Approximately 1.19 g/cm³.
- Typical Upper Service Temperature: Around 70–80°C, subject to grade and load.
- Visible Light Transmission: Up to approximately 92% for clear flat material.
- Electrical and Magnetic Properties: Unfilled clear grades provide electrical insulation and show no magnetic response.
Also, ball diameter, color, surface finish and curvature affect optical behavior.
Benefits of PMMA Balls
PMMA offers a glass-like appearance at about half the weight of common glass. Therefore, it suits visible moving parts that need low mass.
In addition, PMMA offers good weather and UV resistance. This makes it useful for selected outdoor displays and instruments.
Applications of Acrylic Balls
For example, common applications include:
- Flow Indicators: Visible balls for monitoring fluid movement.
- Check Valves and Dispensers: Closing elements for compatible fluids.
- Laboratory Instruments: Transparent components for visual checks.
- Displays and Packaging: Clear spheres and visible moving elements.
However, some solvents and cleaning agents can cause stress cracking. Therefore, match the PMMA grade to the fluid, temperature and cleaning method.
Available Grades and Sizes
- Precision Classes: GI, GII and GIII, subject to the agreed tolerance specification.
- Diameter Range: 1/16 in–4 in, approximately 1.59 mm–101.6 mm.
Availability depends on the material, diameter and precision class. Finally, send us your size, color, tolerance, quantity and working conditions so we can confirm suitable options and lead time.