Improving the quality of steel grinding balls

Abstract

The development of steel-ball production within the Commonwealth of Independent States over the last 50 years is analyzed. Three periods are identified and characterized. The factors responsible for poor ball quality are discussed. The requirements for the production of high-quality balls with hardness up to HRC 65 are outlined, in terms of the chemical composition of the steel, the equipment required, and the production technology. Significant increase in ball quality requires the creation of specialized rolling systems. The fundamental principles to be adopted in creating such systems are reviewed.