1. Introduction to Steel Ball Impact Test

The steel ball impact test evaluates the impact resistance of products or materials by simulating the free fall of a steel ball from a specific height. Widely used in electronics, packaging, building materials, toys, and other industries, it aims to verify a product's ability to withstand mechanical impacts during transportation, use, or accidental drops, thereby ensuring product quality and safety.

The test targets various finished products (e.g., mobile phones, lamps, small appliances), packaging materials (e.g., cartons, cushioning foam), and components (e.g., glass panels, plastic casings). It detects issues such as breakage or functional failure through the impact of the falling steel ball.

2. Test Principle

Based on the principle of free fall, the test involves releasing a steel ball of specified weight from a set height to strike the test sample, simulating real-world impact scenarios. Upon impact, the kinetic energy of the steel ball is rapidly transferred to the sample, subjecting it to a large impact force. Depending on material properties, the sample may undergo elastic deformation, plastic deformation, cracking, or even fragmentation.

By observing and measuring the sample's damage (e.g., crack initiation and propagation, deformation, or fragmentation) and recording parameters such as impact energy and peak impact force, the material's impact resistance can be scientifically evaluated.

The formula for impact energy is: E = mgh

E = impact energy (unit: Joule, J)

m = mass of the steel ball (unit: kilogram, kg)

g = gravitational acceleration (approximately 9.8m/s²)

h = drop height (unit: meter, m)

This formula shows that impact energy is proportional to the steel ball's mass and drop height. By adjusting these parameters, impacts of different energy levels can be simulated to meet testing needs for various materials and products.

3. Ball Imapct Tester

The ball impact tester is the core equipment for the steel ball impact test, consisting of the following key components:

3.1 Steel Ball
As the impact source, the steel ball's size and weight strictly follow international or industry standards to ensure accurate and comparable test results. Depending on requirements, steel balls of different masses (e.g., 100g, 500g, 1kg, 10kg) and diameters are selected, usually made of high-carbon steel for sufficient hardness and impact stability.

For example, standards such as IEC60598-1, IEC60950-1, AS-NZS61439.4, and IEC60601-1 specify a steel ball with 500g mass and φ50mm dropped from 1.3m to verify the mechanical strength of lamps, glass panels and etc.. 

However, in some specific industry standards, a 10kg steel ball dropped from a specified height is used to conduct IK12 to IK20 tests through energy conversion.

3.2 Electromagnet
Used to hold and release the steel ball, with an electronic control system for precise timing. The electromagnet must have sufficient holding force to secure the ball during preparation and release it quickly without interfering with its initial falling speed.

3.3 Drop Rod
Supports the steel ball and adjusts the drop height. Typically a high-precision straight rod with clear scales, it allows accurate height setting using tape measures, squares, or other calibration tools.

3.4 Sample Fixing Device
A custom test bench designed for the sample's shape and size, with surrounding guardrails to prevent the steel ball from rolling and causing injury or damage after impact.

4. In Summary

Through the steel ball impact test, enterprises can scientifically and quantitatively evaluate product performance, ensuring quality and reliability for consumers.

For this test, PEGO offers a dedicated steel ball impact device. Recognizing that some products require both steel ball tests and IK hammer tests, we can integrate the steel ball impact test with the IK hammer test into one device, reducing costs while enabling comprehensive testing. If you need such tests, please contact us for professional support.