Pool balls are used in billiard games. They are made of several different materials, but are usually crafted from phenolic resin. Phenolic is a mixture between formaldehyde, phenol. These two compounds have a reputation for being durable and resistant to scratching. The mixture is also resistant to high temperatures. The resin will fade and turn yellow if it is exposed to sunlight.
Wood was the first material used to make pool balls. These balls were strong, but they became crackly with age. Leo Baekeland was a chemist who created a new material that wasn't volatile in the 19thcentury. This material was known as bakelite, and soon replaced wood in making pool balls.
It was expensive to create pool balls. The process of creating the balls was tedious. A person could cut a ball in half to get a better idea of what was inside. Ultimately, the balls had to be molded under high pressures.
After the first version of bakelite was developed, other inventors began experimenting with chemical substances to make pool balls. Some of these innovations were considered pioneering moments in the synthetic plastics industry.
While phenolic is a great choice for pool balls it comes at a higher price than its polyester equivalent. The polyester option is a better choice if you don't want to spend a lot on pool balls. However, the polyester option will not maintain its color for as long as phenolic resin.
The manufacturing of a phenolic rubber ball takes about 23 days. Every step of the manufacturing process is thoroughly checked to make sure that it is free from impurities. Also, phenolic resin balls can store in lower temperatures than polyester balls. Consequently, they are also more durable and last for longer periods of time.
Aramith is the largest manufacturer of phenolic pool balls. Their phenolic balls last for 40 years and are very durable. They are also more affordable than polyester balls. Aramith Premier offers superior resin technology and is the best option for those looking to upgrade to better quality balls.
Iszy is another pool ball maker that uses a combination phenolic-polyester resin. These pool balls are less expensive than phenolic, but they don't last as long. Polyester balls can also fade faster and leave burn marks on the table. They are still a good choice for beginners.
Predator Arcos is another manufacturer, using a proprietary chemical compound that creates a variety of phenolic-resin balls. These balls are also more dense because they have been through-hardened. You can opt for the Iszy marble swirl set, if you're looking to save money.
Many companies are attempting to replicate the ivory billiard ball experience. However, ivory material is no long available. Modern pool balls are made of phenolic and formaldehyde. The market currently has 85% phenolic pool balls.