Many pool games use pool balls. They are small and unique. They were originally made of ivory and wood. However, synthetic materials have replaced them. They are now made of phenolic resin.
A thermosetting plastic similar to bakelite that's made from phenolic resin, it is more durable than bakelite. The plastic will harden when it cools down. This makes it an ideal choice for a ball pool. It is however very costly. Currently, phenolics resin is mostly manufactured from petroleum.
Polyester resin can be used as an alternative. Polyester resin is an economical option, and is also more affordable than other materials. It is actually much cheaper than phenolic. It is comparable in durability to phenolic. It doesn't last as long. On the other hand, it's a popular choice among many manufacturers.
It was originally made from coal-tar when phenolic resin first appeared. It's very dangerous to use, even though it is a strong and durable material. You can easily injure yourself or others if this material is not handled correctly. It is important to only play with high quality billiard balls in order to avoid this.
Thermoset is a vital component to a high-quality pool ball. It improves the ball's accuracy. Additionally, it adds friction to the billiard ball. With this, a good quality billiard ball can withstand more pressure. Also, pay attention to friction coefficient. It's impossible to trust a ball unable to withstand the stress of the game.
Before the advent of phenolic, pool balls were made from clay, wood, stone and other cellular materials. In the past, some pool balls were still made by manufacturers.
American chemist Leo Baekeland invented a new method to make plastic in 1907. He combined nitrocellulose and alcohol with camphor, and then molded the mixture using extreme pressure. Even though this was not a perfect compound, it was a big step forward.
Bakelite was an easier choice by the middle of the 20th-century. It was also easier to make. It became the standard for billiard ball balls. Bakelite isn't as easily brittle than celluloid.
Today, phenolic-resin pool balls are a favourite. These pool balls are classic and timeless. They're also long-lasting. The ball is durable because the resin is thermosetting. It won't melt back.
You will need high-quality balls for billiards, whether you are looking to play nine-ball games or straight pool. Aramith is an excellent brand. They are the most popular billiard balls on the market.
Aramith pool ball are the most well-known, but there are also quality products from other manufacturers. For example, Iszy offers a marble swirl set that's rated as one of the top ten billiard ball sets on the market. Aramith should be your choice if buying a set.