Ceramic support-ball crushing strength should provide adequate margin for catalyst-bed load and operating conditions. Do not compare or specify crushing values without identifying ball diameter, material grade and test method.

Bottom ceramic balls support and transition the catalyst bed to the structural grid, while top balls stabilize and protect the catalyst surface. Their required size, depth and sometimes material grade may therefore differ.

Select ceramic support-ball sizes from the catalyst geometry, support-grid openings and graded transition plan. The top support layer must retain the catalyst without introducing unnecessary hydraulic restriction.

Catalyst beds use progressively sized ceramic support balls to combine low pressure drop, strong mechanical support and catalyst retention. Large balls provide structural openness, while smaller upper layers prevent catalyst migration into the support system.

A lower ceramic packing price per ton does not necessarily mean a lower project cost. Convert each technically acceptable product to the weight required per installed cubic meter, then include packaging and freight before comparing quotations.