Ceramic ball bearings

Suitable for use in harsh environments where high temperatures and corrosive substances are present, ceramic ball bearings are made of a highly manufactured material similar to the heat-absorbing tiles on the space shuttle. They produce less thermal expansion and conductivity, are lighter weight and noncorrosive. Ceramic silicon nitride balls exhibit greater hardness than steel balls, the company reports, resulting in greater ball life. The balls are said to hold their surface finish longer and to have smoother surface properties than steel balls, resulting in less friction between the balls and bearing race surfaces. Their thermal properties also produce less heat buildup at high speeds.

Boca Bearing Co.
www.bocabearings.com