In the early 1960's, Helipebs, was the first company in Western Europe to introduce the volume production of balls by the hot rolling process. For security of supply, the Company operates two roll forging machines each of which is capable of producing up to 10,000 tonnes per year.

We offer two types of grinding ball, each in a wide range of hardness's tailored to suit individual customer requirements.

Standard ball sizes produced are:

• 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, and 70mm.
• Larger diameters are available upon request.

The major advantage of precision ball rolling, compared with traditional forging methods, is the un-interrupted grain flow. All grinding balls are made from specially selected carbon and alloy steels produced to Helipebs precise specification.

• Steel bars are heated in a gas-fired walking beam furnace before being transferred to the rolling mill.
• The hot material is fed into a pair of rotating dies causing the bar to spin in the rolls.
• Balls are formed at the rate of 2 - 7 balls per second dependant on the diameter being produced.
• The product is quenched and tempered to a pre-selected grade of hardness.
• Finished balls are packed in 225 litre drums (900 kilos net) for ease of delivery.

A special feature of our manufacturing process is the advanced heat treatment facility, giving uniform surface hardness and controlled cross-sectional hardness, (which is) essential for very even wear.

Helipebs are able to offer two qualities of media:

• The 'thru-hard' ball has a uniform high hardness throughout its volume, thus maintaining good wear properties down to very small diameters. Available in all standard sizes.
• The 'tough-core' ball has a hard outer layer for long life, coupled with a tough resilient core, giving good impact resistance. Available from 40mm through to 70mm diameter.