Product Description
In the ever-evolving world of industrial technology, materials that offer superior performance under extreme conditions are in high demand. Among these, high-purity Si3N4 precision balls sintered for maximum density stand out as a revolutionary advancement. These ceramic balls are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of industries ranging from aerospace to automotive, offering unparalleled benefits in terms of durability, efficiency, and reliability.
Silicon nitride (Si3N4) is a ceramic material renowned for its exceptional mechanical and thermal properties. It is widely used in the manufacturing of precision balls, which are integral components in various types of bearings. These balls are sintered for maximum density, ensuring a robust and reliable performance in high-stress environments.
- High Heat Resistance: Si3N4 balls can withstand temperatures up to 1800°F (982°C), making them ideal for high-temperature applications such as aerospace and military sectors.
- Low Friction: The smooth surface of silicon nitride reduces friction, which enhances the efficiency of bearings and extends their service life.
- Chemical and Corrosion Resistance: These balls are highly resistant to corrosion and chemical attack, ensuring longevity even in harsh environments.
- Lightweight: Weighing 60% less than steel, Si3N4 balls reduce the centrifugal force during bearing rotation, enabling faster operating speeds.
- Non-Magnetic and Electrically Insulative: These properties make them suitable for applications in magnetic fields and electric motors, preventing interference and electrolytic corrosion.
Silicon nitride precision balls are used across a variety of industries due to their superior properties. Here are some key applications:
In aerospace and defense, the need for materials that can endure extreme conditions is paramount. Si3N4 precision balls are used in aircraft engines and other critical components due to their ability to maintain performance at high temperatures and their resistance to wear and corrosion.
The automotive sector benefits significantly from the use of Si3N4 balls in hybrid and full ceramic bearings. These components enhance the performance of electric and autonomous vehicles by reducing friction, weight, and maintenance requirements.
In semiconductor manufacturing, precision is crucial. Si3N4 balls are used in equipment that operates at high speeds with low lubrication conditions, offering increased bearing life and reduced maintenance costs.
As the demand for renewable energy sources like wind power increases, so does the need for durable materials. Si3N4 balls are used in wind turbine generators, where their strength and low maintenance requirements help reduce the risk of unscheduled maintenance.
The production of high-purity Si3N4 precision balls involves a sophisticated manufacturing process that includes pressing and sintering. This process ensures that the balls achieve maximum density and uniformity, essential for their performance in demanding applications.
Manufacturers adhere to strict quality standards, such as ISO 3290-2, to ensure the precision and reliability of Si3N4 balls. These standards govern the dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and material properties of the balls, ensuring they meet the specific needs of various applications.
Compared to traditional steel balls, Si3N4 precision balls offer several advantages:
- Higher Temperature Tolerance: Si3N4 can operate at much higher temperatures than steel, making it suitable for extreme environments.
- Enhanced Durability: The wear resistance and hardness of Si3N4 extend the lifespan of bearings, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Weight Reduction: The lightweight nature of Si3N4 reduces the overall weight of components, contributing to energy efficiency in applications like electric vehicles.
- Electrical and Magnetic Properties: The non-conductive and non-magnetic nature of Si3N4 eliminates issues related to electrical interference and magnetic field disturbances.
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

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FAQ
1. What sizes and tolerances are available?
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Diameter range: 0.5mm to 50mm (custom sizes possible).
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Sphericity: As low as 0.1µm (Grade 5 for ultra-precision bearings).
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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:
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Load & speed requirements (dynamic/static stress).
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Temperature range (Si3N4 excels in high heat).
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Chemical exposure (resistant to most acids/alkalis).
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Electrical insulation needs (non-conductive).