In a round separator machine, the balls are typically supported by a coarser screen located below the sizing screen. Vertical separator motion bounces the balls between the two screens. You want the proper combination of ball diameter and vertical motion to bounce the balls off the underside of the sizing screen with sufficient force to dislodge near-size particles.

Balls excel at deblinding near-size particles that are jagged or otherwise irregularly shaped. In fact, they typically outperform sliders in such applications. Producers also consider screening balls for use with shear-sensitive products. By themselves, balls tend to migrate to the outer edge of a round screen. As a result, cleaning is sometimes better at the periphery of the screen than at the center.

Screen cleaning balls are available in various diameters from 5⁄8″ to 2″. Select from five colors: clear, white, black, red, and tan.

Always specify screen cleaning balls made of materials suitable for your application. Please see the information below for recommendations.

• EPDM – A general purpose compound used in some food grade applications. It is harder than natural rubber
• Natural Rubber – Softer than EPDM, it is a good general purpose compound, suitable for food-grade applications
• Neoprene – Very resistant to ozone, weather, fats and oils, making it useful in food-grade applications
• Nitrile – Similar to neoprene, although it offers somewhat better abrasion resistance
• Silicone – Resistant to high temperatures, wear-and-tear, ozone and oxidation