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CERBEC balls are known worldwide for their extremely smooth surface finish. Their manufacturing process is totally dedicated to Si₃N₄ finishing.

Surface Finish

CERBEC balls are known worldwide for their extremely smooth surface finish. Their manufacturing process is totally dedicated to Si₃N₄ finishing. This focus yields surface finish typically < 0.10 micro inch (< 0.003 micron) consistently from batch to batch for the tens of millions of balls we produce annually. Reduced bearing friction from Si₃N₄ is a function of smooth surface finish - it must be done right all at the time. CERBEC balls have over 10 years' history of superior surface finish.

Surface Quality

CERBEC balls are also known for superior surface quality. CERBEC balls are free of cuts, scratches, scuffs, and other breaks in surface continuity. While many companies pay attention to surface finish, CERBEC balls are the only ones on the market made with great focus on surface quality. This attention to detail translates into longer life and more reliable operation of your bearing.

Geometry

CERBEC ball geometry far exceeds ASTM F2094 for silicon nitride balls. Beyond superior surface finish and quality, CERBEC balls are extremely round with tightly controlled diameter variation in every lot. CERBEC balls can also be made with tightly controlled harmonics or waviness. The highest precision bearing companies worldwide specify CERBEC balls to minimize noise and vibration at the highest of speeds.

Optimized Si₃N₄

CERBEC balls are made from Si₃N₄, specifically engineered for bearings. Their Si₃N₄ materials are all Hot Isostatically Pressed (HIP) for a pore-free microstructure with micron-sized grains. For decades, Saint-Gobain has pioneered HIP technology to yield the highest quality, superior performance Si₃N₄ for bearings.

Availability

CERBEC balls are made in Grade 5, 3, and better. They are stocked worldwide in a wide range of sizes (1/32" to 1-1/8") and increments. We recognize that bearing companies need a selection of ball increments to build bearing quickly and affordably. That's why we are the only Si₃N₄ ball maker that stocks from 3 to 9 increments to each ball size (M4 to P4 in some cases). For their best clients, we maintain stock in their plants to assure balls are always ready for bearing assembly.

All Ceramics Are Not Create Equal

CERBEC ® balls' unique, patented formulation, microstructure, and precision finish imbue it with superior performance characteristics. Almost all ceramic rolling elements present some advantages over steel. The precision-crafted quality of CERBEC balls far outperforms not only the best steel, but also all other ceramics, in nearly every instance.