We are talking about the PING PONG BALLS used in the OLYMPIC GAMES!
I have mentioned the OLYMPICS before, and we all know what the Olympic Games are. I was also in the same position as the rest, searching for information about ping pong balls used in the Olympics.
I, too, asked myself why they use PING PONG BALLS in the Olympic Games. What are they made of? Does it affect my health or any sports event?
The first time I found the answer to these questions was when I read the “Olympic Games 2016: How they Work” article by Mr. William J. Bock (a Chemistry and Applied Physics professor at Cornell University). This article helped me understand the importance of the ping pong balls used in the Olympic Games.
I didn’t know anything about them until then, but I am so glad I got to learn everything I needed to know about them!
What Ping Pong Balls are used in the Olympics
Ping-pong balls are round balls with smooth outer coating, used in almost every sports game. They are used for serving, lobbing, and catching the ball, and they make it easier to play the game because it helps the players to keep their eyes on the ball instead of concentrating on anything else. The ping pong balls used in the Olympics are made of polyurethane, a type of rubber.
However, some factors to consider are the best ping pong balls used in Olympics.
Manufacturing Process
The Ping-Pong Balls are made of polybutadiene rubber material. The raw material is mixed together and molded into balls. Then the balls will go through a curing process to harden the surface. There will be some chemical additives to increase the abrasion and friction resistance of the balls.
Tougher than others
They are made of the same material that other table tennis balls have, but they have a tougher coating that makes the balls harder and, therefore, easier to handle. This helps table tennis players to play better and perform faster.
Brand
It would help if you also chose the ping pong balls used in Olympic sports. While there are thousands of brands available on the market. But, did you know, the Olympics used only some brands for the balls because they are quality made and approved by International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF)
You can refer to the following top ping pong balls brands around the world:
- Joola ( Germany brand)
- Nittaku (Japanese brand)
- DHS ( Chinese brand)
- Butterfly ( Chinese brand)
- Double Fish (Chinese brand)
Density
Ping-Pong Balls are made of synthetic material. Therefore, they have a lower density than natural rubber balls. They are softer than normal balls, though. They also have less air inside the ball.
The Diameter
The size of a Ping-Pong ball has a big impact on how well you play. A larger diameter is more powerful and thus better for you. A higher density gives the balls a stronger bounce and harder feel. A lower density increases the friction and reduces the rebound.
What’s the right diameter?
The ITTF recommends a diameter of 40 mm for a table tennis ball. This is the optimum size. Players who can reach a better contact rate will be more successful. When using a larger diameter, players will be able to hit the ball harder and farther.
How are Balls Tested for Olympics Sports?
Some factors have been tested for choosing the balls used in Olympics. To know more about choosing a table tennis ball for Olympics, you should consider the weight, quality, and material.
The Weight
The table tennis ball weighs 2.7 grams. This is the official weight, and this is the maximum allowed. For the best performance, use a heavier ball. You will have more power and speed when playing.
The Manufacturing Process
The ball is made of polybutadiene rubber. A material that is found everywhere. In table tennis, we use this material for the surface.
Quality
The quality of a ping pong ball determines how well it bounces on the table’s surface. Different balls bounce differently. For example, the Wilson Pro serves is made of high-quality material. However, the bounce is soft and has great spin.
These balls have softer rubber with a slightly higher bounce than the Pro. The bounce is just as soft but has less spin. So when the two are hit on the table, the ping pong ball will give you a very different feel than the Pro.
Balls should also be easy to control. When a player uses the table for the first time, the ping pong ball should not stick.
Balls flexibility
Each ping pong ball is made from a special plastic that has more in common with rubber than plastic. The unique chemical makeup of this material allows the ball to bend easily.
Materials
Ping-pong balls can be made of any of a number of different materials. These include synthetic (rubber), natural (gum), and composite materials. Each material has its pros and cons. Synthetic balls are the most durable. They’re also the most expensive. They also come in only a few colors.
Natural balls are the least durable. They also don’t have the best grip or spin. However, they do come in a wide range of colors. Composite balls are the most flexible. They’re also the cheapest option. They’re also a mix of rubber and natural materials, which makes them better than either material on their own.
FAQs
What is the official ping pong ball?
The official ping pong ball is the standard white ball used for most international tournaments and for practice and exhibition matches. Besides, the official ball has a circumference of 40 millimeters and is a 2.7 g ball. It comes in both red and white variations, and both colors are equally suitable for use in different types of competitions.
What is the official color of a standard ping pong ball used in the Olympics?
The official color of a standard ping pong ball is light green. This was first adopted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the name “white or orange ball” is the best for this specific purpose.
Conclusion
Ping-pong balls are used in the Olympics because they can be very lightweight yet maintain their integrity when struck. They are made from plastic, are solid in construction, and come in various sizes and weights.
Although these balls may seem like fun, they are used as a part of the sport. What are some applications of ping pong balls? If you don’t know about it, read the above guide I have provided you after gathering the information about what ping pong balls are used in the Olympics!
