Ball knobs offer a simple and effective way to control machinery. They are characterized by a spherical, ball-shaped handle. Once connected to a piece of machinery, you can move the ball knob to perform a command. While ball knobs are available in many different materials, however, bras is a popular choice for the following reasons.
#1) Timeless Look
Many people prefer brass ball knobs for their timeless look. Brass features a warm golden tone that complements a wide range of other colors. Over time, unfinished brass will even develop a thin outer layer. Known as a patina, it’s slightly darker than the raw, original color of brass. Regardless, brass ball knobs offer a timeless look that’s able to weather the hands of time for many years to come.
#2) Excellent Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion isn’t a concern with brass ball knobs. Brass offers a superior level of corrosion resistance when compared to many other materials, including carbon steel. As a metallic alloy of copper and zinc, there’s no iron in brass. Therefore, it can’t rust. Brass can also withstand humid and wet environments without succumbing to the effects of corrosion. While other materials will degrade under these conditions, brass will develop a protective and stylish patina.
#3) Excellent Durability
Another benefit of brass ball knobs is excellent durability. While softer than steel, brass is still quite strong and able to meet the demands of machinery control applications. Brass ball knobs are typically made of solid brass. With their all-brass construction, they won’t crack or otherwise sustain damage. You can use them repeatedly to engage and control machinery without fear of them becoming damaged.
#4) Resistant to Galling
Assuming you install them with the right mating bolt, brass ball knobs are highly resistant to galling. Galling is a phenomenon that involves two objects, typically threaded objects or fasteners, sticking together due to friction or pressure. Brass offers a high level of protection against galling when paired with a steel object. If you install a brass ball knob on a steel bolt, for example, galling shouldn’t occur. This makes brass ball knobs easy to tighten and loosen since they won’t stick to the bolt.
#5) Sustainable
Brass ball knobs are sustainable. Brass is a 100% recyclable material, meaning it can be fully melted down and reused — without losing any material in the process. This is just one more reason to choose brass over other materials.