What are the components of a bolted ball node?

 The bolt ball node is mainly composed of the following parts:

Steel ball:
Material: forged or cast solid steel ball, but the inner part is actually hollow to reduce weight.

Role: As the core component of the connection, the steel ball is drilled and turned out according to the angle of convergence of the net frame rods, and is used to connect with the bolts.

Bolt:
Material: high strength bolt to ensure the reliability and durability of the connection.
Role: Connect the steel pipe members and steel balls together by bolts to form a whole structure. The diameter and length of the bolts are selected according to the force demand.

Sleeve:
Shape: usually a hexagonal sleeve for easy screwing.
Role: Sleeve on the screw of the bolt, by unscrewing the sleeve can drive the bolt to rotate, so as to realise the connection between the bolt and the steel ball.

Pins or screws:
Function: used to fix the bolt and sleeve together, preventing the sleeve from falling off in the process of unscrewing. The diameter and length of the pin or screw should match the sleeve and bolt.

Cone head or seal plate:
Material: the same material as the steel pipe rod to ensure the welding quality.
Function: Welded on both ends of the steel pipe rod, used to place the bolts and connect with the sleeve. The design of the cone head or sealing plate can be adjusted according to the force requirements.

These parts together constitute the bolt ball node, which realises the reliable connection between the steel pipe rod and the steel ball through the matching connection of bolts, sleeves, pins or screws, and conical head or sealing plate. This node form has the advantages of strong adaptability, reliable connection, easy installation and disassembly, etc., and is widely used in large-span space structures.