Do Urethane Bowling Balls Absorb Oil?

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Highlights

• Urethane balls have been found to absorb less oil than other types of balls.
• Due to their low oil absorption rate, urethane balls are ideal for use on dry or lightly oiled lanes.
• It is important to clean it after each use using a mild soap and water solution, avoid storing it in extreme temperatures, and consider resurfacing or sanding the surface periodically.

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As you strive to up your game and conquer the lanes, choosing the right equipment is an essential factor in achieving success. One crucial aspect of this decision is understanding urethane bowling balls and their unique relationship with oil absorption.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll delve into the composition, characteristics, and performance of these versatile balls while also discussing proper maintenance tips to keep them rolling smoothly.

Understanding Urethane Bowling Balls

Composition And Characteristics

Urethane bowling balls have come a long way since their introduction in the 1980s. Known for their solid construction and consistent performance, they are often considered a favorite among both professional bowlers and enthusiasts alike.

A key differentiator between urethane balls and other types is the hardness level achieved through its coverstock makeup. The hardness of a bowling ball is measured on the “durometer” scale, which ranges from 0 to 100.

Urethane balls typically sit at around 75-80 on this scale, making them ideal for those looking for more control over their shots as opposed to the maximum hook potential or extreme power found in reactive resin or plastic balls.

Additionally, urethane bowling balls are known to offer increased predictability on various lane conditions and can provide better spare shooting accuracy due primarily to their low oil absorption rate (fact #2).

How Urethane Balls React To Oil On Lanes

Urethane bowling balls are well-known for their ability to handle dry or lightly oiled lanes due to their low oil absorption rate. Urethane balls react differently to oil on the lanes compared to other types of bowling balls, such as reactive resin balls.

When a urethane ball encounters lane oil, it will initially glide smoothly over the surface before gradually digging into the friction and creating hook potential.

It’s worth noting that while urethane balls have a lower oil absorption rate than other types of bowling balls, they still absorb some amount of oil which can affect performance over time.

Proper care and maintenance is crucial, including regular cleaning and storage away from heat sources that can cause damage or warping.

Oil Absorption In Bowling Balls

Oil absorption in bowling balls can greatly impact the way a ball performs on the lane, and urethane balls have been found to absorb less oil than other types of balls.

Causes And Effects Of Oil Absorption

Bowling balls can absorb oil from the lanes they are rolled on, which can affect their performance. The type of coverstock material used and the roughness or smoothness of the surface also play a role in how much oil is absorbed.

The more porous a ball’s coverstock is, such as with reactive resin balls, the more it will absorb oil.

On the other hand, urethane bowling balls have a low rate of oil absorption due to their non-porous coverstock. This makes them ideal for use on dry or lightly oiled lanes where less friction is needed to create hook potential.

However, if not properly maintained and cleaned after use, even urethane balls can eventually become saturated with oil, causing degradation in performance over time.

How Urethane Bowling Balls Absorb Oil

Urethane bowling balls have a unique ability to absorb oil differently than other types of balls. Due to their low oil absorption rate, urethane balls are ideal for use on dry or lightly oiled lanes.

When a drop of lane oil lands on the surface of a urethane ball, it slowly seeps into the coverstock and is held there rather than spreading across the surface as it would with other materials.

This characteristic allows bowlers using urethane balls to achieve higher scores even in low-oil conditions where reactive resin or plastic balls may struggle to gain traction.

Proper Care And Maintenance

To keep your urethane bowling ball in top condition, it is important to clean it after each use using a mild soap and water solution, avoid storing it in extreme temperatures, and consider resurfacing or sanding the surface periodically to maintain optimal performance.

Cleaning And Storage Tips

Proper care and maintenance of your urethane bowling ball is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. After each use, clean the ball with a microfiber towel or a specially designed cleaning solution to remove any dirt or oil buildup on the surface.

When storing your urethane ball, it’s best to keep it in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. To maintain the surface of your urethane ball, consider resurfacing or sanding it periodically. This will restore its original finish and improve its hook potential.

Resurfacing And Sanding Techniques For Optimal Performance

Regular resurfacing and sanding of a bowling ball can help improve its overall performance. Over time, the surface of a bowling ball can become worn and lose its grip on the lane, resulting in less hook potential and less hook control.

When it comes to sanding your bowling ball, it’s important to first determine what grit you need for your specific situation. The lower the number on the sandpaper (e.g., 80-grit), the more aggressive it will be in removing material from the ball’s surface.

For minor scratches or scuffs, a higher grit (such as 500) may be sufficient.

Another key aspect of maintaining optimal performance is ensuring that any new finish added to your bowling ball is done evenly and free from any bumps or ridges.

Conclusion

Now that you have a better understanding of urethane bowling balls and oil absorption, you can make more informed decisions about the type of ball to use for your upcoming game.

Remember to consider factors like lane conditions, ball weight, coverstock material, and drilling layout when selecting a ball. Proper care and maintenance will also help prolong the lifespan of your bowling balls.

Last updated on April 23, 2023