Since its advent over six decades ago, fracking has been vital to the development of the oil and gas industry in the U.S. The use of hydraulic fracking affords industry professionals several benefits; the production of domestic oil and gas is greatly increased, and resources are recovered more efficiently—leading to lower overall costs for petrochemical companies. Hydraulic fracking utilizes high-pressure fluids (usually a mixture of chemicals, water, and sand) to create fissures in deep rock formations, facilitating the amplified oil flow rates. Over one million fracks have taken place in the U.S. since 2012, attesting to the popularity of the process. As the use of fracking increases, so will the demand for modern tools and techniques. To offer more versatility to our clients, Precision Plastic Ball Co. has a wide selection of products that are ideal for hydraulic fracking applications.

What are Frac Balls?

Frac balls are precision grade balls that can be injected into a well to cause pressure build-ups underground. The resulting high pressure creates fracturing of target areas within the formation. Frac balls come in multiple sizes and materials depending on the intended application; sometimes you will need frac balls to withstand high pressures ranging from 15,000-20,000 psi, and other times you may need frac balls designed to dissolve over time—since they can be difficult to retrieve.

Types of PPC Frac Balls

Precision Plastic Ball Co. offers several frac balls—most commonly used in control valves—that can meet all your hydraulic fracking needs.

  • Phenolic Plastic Resin Balls are exceptionally resistant to impact and abrasion, while offering superior tensile strength. Phenolic balls have a specific gravity of 1.3 – 1.75 – 1.85, and are available in sizes up to 3 ¾” (95 ¼ mm) with a tolerance of ± 0.002”. High pressure G-10 Glass Epoxy Phenolic Balls are also available.
  • Torlon High Performance Plastic Balls are amorphous polymers known for their mechanical, thermal, and chemical resistance. Torlon balls can maintain their strength and stiffness in the most demanding applications; they can continuously operate in temperatures up to 500° F, with a minimal expansion rate. These balls are available in multiple colors and sizes up to ½” (12 7/10 mm).
  • Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) High Performance Plastic Balls are wear and chemical resistant, and has low moisture absorption. PEEK balls are able to operate at high temperatures without losing any physical properties. We offer PEEK balls in sizes ranging from 3/32” to 1” with a tolerance of ± 0.002”, and a durometer/hardness rating of 85/126.

Phenolic, Torlon, and PEEK balls are popular choices for hydraulic fracking due to their high strength and resiliency in harsh application environments. In addition to these plastic polymer balls, metal balls can also be used for hydraulic fracking. Our metal frac balls are composed of stainless steel, carbon steel, and aluminum; the material you choose will ultimately depend on the well site and the specific application. Metal balls can provide you with added resistance to severe chemicals and temperatures, while accommodating various drilling needs. In fracking, stainless steel and aluminum balls are the most commonly used materials.

Learn More with our Frac Balls Chart

Most of the oil and gas wells in the world utilize hydraulic fracking, not just those found in America. At Precision Plastic Ball Co., we carry a large selection of precision grade balls that can aid your fracking efforts, resulting in greater in a greater yield or natural products. With this Frac Ball Chart, you will learn more about frac balls and which his right for your application.

Our products also be used in various petrochemical applications—contact us today for more information.