Polyurethane Balls (PUR) for Wear Resistance and Impact Damping
REDHILL supplies polyurethane balls for valves, feeders and moving mechanisms. PUR combines elastic recovery with resistance to abrasion. As a result, it can absorb impacts and reduce contact noise.
Key Technical Specifications
Cast PUR and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) offer different material options. However, the formulation determines the final properties.
- Material Options: Polyester- or polyether-based polyurethane.
- Structure: Crosslinked elastomer for cast PUR; thermoplastic elastomer for TPU.
- Hardness Options: Approximately 70–95 Shore A; harder grades around 45–60 Shore D on request.
- Typical Density: Approximately 1.10–1.25 g/cm³ for selected solid, unfilled grades.
- Temperature Limits: Confirm for the selected compound, load and fluid.
Benefits of Polyurethane Balls
- Wear Resistance: Helps limit surface loss from repeated contact.
- Elastic Contact: Cushions impacts and can help protect mating parts.
- Noise Damping: Helps reduce noise from contact and vibration.
- Grip: Supports feeding and guiding tasks that need traction.
However, hardness and surface conditions affect grip and marking. Therefore, check the ball on the actual contact surface.
Choosing the Polyurethane Grade
Many polyurethane grades resist oils and greases. However, lubricant additives can change compatibility. In addition, polyether TPU generally offers better hydrolysis resistance than polyester TPU in wet conditions. Therefore, match the grade to the fluid, temperature and exposure time.
Applications of Polyurethane Balls
- Check Valves: Flexible sealing elements for compatible fluids.
- Feeders and Sorters: Contact elements for guiding and handling parts.
- Low-Speed Mechanisms: Rolling elements where the design allows elastic deformation.
- Stops and Guides: Balls for cushioning and controlled contact.
Available Sizes and Precision Requirements
- Precision Classes: GI, GII and GIII, subject to agreed dimensions and inspection conditions.
- Diameter Range: 1/16 in–4 in (approximately 1.59–101.6 mm).
Finally, send us your diameter, hardness, tolerance and quantity. Also, include the load, speed, fluid and temperature so we can confirm a suitable material.