The proper distribution of weight in many types of applications is essential. Ballast is the term for this weight that is anything other than cargo that is designed to help provide stability and balance.
In boats, particularly in sailing vessels, the ballast is important to offset the forces of the water on the hull of the boat. In racing cars, the ballast is used to add to the vehicle weight to not only make it meet racing standards but to also selectively position where the weight is located to add to turning ability, change the center of gravity, and improve overall performance.
The most common type of weight used in these applications, as well as countless others, is standard lead ballast. Lead is an ideal material as it is extremely dense, so a small amount of lead can be used to add a significant amount of weight. Remember, for ballast, weight and not bulk is the critical factor.
Standard Lead Ballast
Lead manufacturers typically provide several options in standard types of ballast. This is made from molten lead poured into molds in specific shapes that are commonly used in various applications.
Triangular, rectangular, and flat brick types of lead ballast are available in different sizes and weights for easy ordering and design calculations. These are smaller weight types of ballasts that range from just over 20 pounds to 52 pounds each from most manufacturers.
Custom Designs
For specialized types of applications, or in the case of the need for very heavy ballasts for cranes, lifts, elevators, and even bridges, custom options in ballast can be designed and manufactured by a small number of companies.
The custom design ballast can be the weight, shape, and dimensions needed for a given application, making it an effective option for any type of non-standard ballast requirements.
