Storm addresses "Dead Ball Syndrome"

The official statement of Storm Products Inc., addressing the issue of performance loss referred to as to "Dead Ball Syndrome."

In recent months, bowling ball manufacturers have addressed the issue of potential performance loss over the life span of a bowling ball.

Storm Products Inc. hired an independent research firm to study the effect of lane conditioner absorption on Storm coverstock material over time. The following information was revealed:

Independent Scientific Oil Absorption Study

Surface samples were taken from two commercially produced Storm Reactive Urethane Shells. The reactive coverstock of these balls is specifically designed with a polyurethane polymer with a molecular crosslink density suitable to provide the needed reactivity while minimizing the "pick-up" of lane oil. These balls have essentially no porosity. It is well known that porosity in the balls surface maximizes lane oil pickup and retention in the ball surface.

Two basic types of balls were examined for oil absorption under normal conditions and the worst conditions normally encountered. Sections of the ball shell were cut and carefully measured and weighed prior to testing. Each sample's surface was then exposed (coated) with standard lane oil and maintained for 72 hours at 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The samples were then carefully reweighed after wiping the surface with a standard hand towel.

Of the two ball types investigated, neither was found to produce a significant weight gain.

Actual values follow:

• Standard "Reactive" — increased in weight by 0.01556 percent.
• Standard "Particle Reactive" — increased in weight by 0.01527 percent.

The same two basic types of balls were examined for weight loss after being exposed to an elevated temperature for 16 hours at 150 degrees Fahrenheit to simulate a ball left in an automobile trunk on a hot summer day or exposed to excessive "polishing."

The results were as follows:

• Standard "Reactive" — decreased in weight by .02280 percent.
• Standard "Particle Reactive" — decreased in weight by .01802 percent.

Conclusion: A simple wipe with a standard hand towel when the surface of these balls is "oily" and at the end of the game should be sufficient to maintain the ball integrity. The lane oil does dry over time, and the ball may require a cleaner such as that produced by Storm Products to remove the dried on oil.

For more information on Storm's complete line of bowling products including professional quality cleaners and polishes, call 1-800/369-4402 or visit stormbowling.com.