Applied Torque To Your Bowling Ball
bowlingball.com,
Originally Posted: 6/3/2014; Updated: 10/23/2022If you are wondering about the amount of applied torque to your bowling ball, then you merely need to think of a more commonly used term, “rev rate.”
Bowlers are always interested in learning about their rev rate. Rev-rate is a term referring to the rate of revolution your bowling ball has based on your ball speed and delivery technique.
The torque applied to your ball can be defined as Rotational Torque and can be measured as force's tendency to rotate an object. To calculate torque, you need to know how large the force is and the length between the axis and the point of force application.
Instead use the rev rate common measurements related to your ball speed at the moment you deliver your ball and you will get an idea of your hitting power at impact with the pins.
If you have been told the best method in measuring your rev rate is to use a camera or a computer, then perhaps this little guideline can help you get an approximate idea how many revs you deliver on your
bowling ball:
If you deliver your ball at 15-16 mph, the rev rate will be 200-250 rpm’s
(mph is miles per hour; rpm is revolutions per minute).
At a faster speed of 16-17 mph, the rev rate will be 250-300 rpm’s.
In the range of 17-18 mph, you will have a rev rate of 300-350 rpm’s.
With a launch speed of 18-19 mph, you will have a rev rate of 350-400 rpm’s.
If you deliver your ball at 19+ mph, you will have a rev rate of 400+ rpm’s.
Ball speed in these approximations is measured at the moment of delivery, not your average speed or the speed of your ball at impact with the pins.
Your delivery style influences your rev rate. The amount of axis tilt imparted on your ball based on your hand action will add or subtract from the overall value of the ball speed and may alter your rev rate slightly.
Most competitive bowlers fall into the 300-350 rpm range or slightly higher or lower.
If you feel your ball speed is too slow, then increase your torque and hitting power by increasing your ball speed. Do so while working with your bowling instructor to pick up your ball speed without losing balance or accuracy and so you gain torque.
By the way, ifIf you deliver the ball at 20+ mph at delivery, then slowing your speed will help better match your revs to your ball speed and will help you can an effective ball reaction.
The end goal is to attain consistent ball motion so you can make good alignment and adjustment decisions while still providing sufficient torque and rev rate to maximize your carry percentage.
