Metal Sphere Material Guide

304 is the default for architectural and landscape spheres. It takes a high quality mirror polish, holds it outdoors, and covers the full size range from ∅6mm bearing balls to ∅3500mm architectural orbs.

Choose 304 for inland public art, garden spheres, fountain balls and facade elements.

316 offers higher resistance to corrosion, which is why we recommend it where the sphere sits near the ocean, beside a swimming pool, or anywhere de-icing salt is used.

316L is also available on water drop sculptures and hemispheres where the specification calls for it.

Carbon steel is the material for fire pit balls and ironwork. It spins to the heaviest walls we make, 2mm up to 16mm (14GA to 5/8 inch), and the 45° welding groove on spun hemispheres is what makes self-assembly possible.

Left raw it develops a rust patina. That patina looks organic in an appealing industrial way, and it takes many decades for rust to affect the ball. Heat resistant paint is the alternative.

Brass gives a high reflective gold accent that steel cannot imitate. It runs from ∅6mm to ∅3500mm and suits jewellery, lampshades, sculpture, church roofs, door knockers and floating balls.

Both stamping press and water pressuring produce invisible welding seams in brass after grinding and mirror polishing. Raw finish is available if you plan to patinate.

Aluminium is the light option. It matters when the piece hangs from a structure, when a small crew installs it, or when a sculpture stands on slender supports.

Aluminium spheres carry visible welding seams, ground burr free. Spray painting and powder coating take well to the surface.