Bowling EquipSpecs Manual 2008.pdf

Equipment Specifications and

Certification Manual

MANUAL UDATED 12/08

EQ-09098 12/08(rev.)

EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS

AND CERTIFICATION

MANUAL

Purpose: This manual is published by the United States Bowling Congress and is provided as a service to all.

Reason: All bowling equipment must conform to the specifications set forth in this manual.

Function: In addition to the basic specifications which appear in the USBC Playing Rules, this manual includes all technical specifications covering specific items of equipment. This also includes certification and lane dressing specifications and procedures. These items are appropriately identified throughout the manual

“USBC has the inherent right to refuse for testing anything that USBC believes to be offensive to a portion of our membership or which could involve the USBC implicitly condoning a violation of local laws.”

To preserve the character and integrity of the sport, and assure fairness of play for all USBC members, USBC reserves the right to conduct further testing and/or modify specifications when technological advancements may alter the fundamental nature or character of the sport.

USBC approval is based on specifications and sample material provided at the time of application and the foregoing conditions. Any modifications or anticipated change in construction, materials and/or installation procedures must be reported to USBC to ensure continued approval under these terms.

Please be advised that this information was accurate at the time of printing. Since changes are being made on a regular basis, please see bowl.com for the latest information.

INDEX

I. Bowling Ball Specifications A. General Bowling Ball Specifications ...............................................................................I-1

1. Markings

2. Material

3. Surface

4. Weight

5. Hardness

6. Cleaning

7. Devices

8. Mechanical Aids

B. Ball Manufacturing Specifications...................................................................................I-2

1. Physical Specifications

2. Circumference and diameter

3. Roundness

4. Hardness

5. Radius of Gyration

6. Marking

7. Center of Gravity-CG Marking Location

8. Coefficient of Restitution

9. Coefficient of Friction

10. Approval Logos

C. Drilling Specifications.......................................................................................................I-3

1. Holes

2. Balance

3. Determine the Center of Grip

3. Plugs & Design

II. Bowling Pin Specifications A. Tenpin Specifications.......................................................................................................II-1

1. Material

2. Type of Construction

3. Adhesives

4. Weight

5. Center of Gravity

6. Radius of Gyration

7. Moisture Content

8. Finish

9. Coatings

10. Coefficient of Restitution

11. Hardness

12. Design & Measurements

13. Pin Dimensions

14. Bowling Pin Measurement Specification

15. Bases

16. Base Attachments

17. Label & Markings

18. USBC Labels

19. Procedure for USBC Approval

20. Renewal of USBC Permit

21. Maintenance of Pins

22. Supplementary Finish

23. Patching Plastic Coated Pins

24. Head Patching Plastic Coated Pins

B. Plastic Coated Tenpins ....................................................................................................II-9

1. Scope

2. Color

3. Quality of Maple

4. Thickness

5. Bases

6. Bond & Finish

7. Durability

8. Scoreability

PAGE

C. Synthetic Tenpins...........................................................................................................II-10

1. Approval

2. Color

3. Material

4. Weight

5. Core Filling

6. Exterior Coating

7. Balance

8. Measurement

9. Base Attachment

10. Center of Gravity

11. Radius of Gyration

12. Scoreability

13. Durability

14. Labeling

D. Controlled Weight Pins ..................................................................................................II-11 E. Plastic Base Attachments ..............................................................................................II-11 F. Densified Tenpin .............................................................................................................II-11 G. Synthetic Fibre Reinforced Coating .............................................................................II-12 H. Refurbished Tenpin ........................................................................................................II-12

III. Lane Specifications A. Regulation Bowling Lane ...............................................................................................III-1

1. Synthetic Products

2. Approach

3. Foul Line

4. Composition

5. Length

6. Width

7. Surface

8. Lane & Approach Markings & Designs

B. Special Events – Designs and Logos............................................................................III-3

C. Synthetic Bowling Lane..................................................................................................III-4

1. Identification

2. Gaps & Drop Off

3. Surface

4. Sward Hardness

IV. Pit Area Specifications A. Pin Deck ...........................................................................................................................IV-1

1. Composition

2. Edgeboards

3. Synthetic Edge Strip

4. Synthetic Pin Decks

5. Pin Spots

6. Tail Plank

B. Other Pit Area Specifications.........................................................................................IV-3

1. Round Gutters

2. Flat Gutters

3. Reinforced Flat Gutters

4. Flat Gutter Molding

5. Reinforced Flat Gutter Molding

6. Kickbacks

7. Kickback Plates

8. Rear Cushion

9. Pit

10. Lane Dimensions Pit end View

11. Bowling Lane Dimensions

V. Automatic Devices A. Automatic Pinsetting Device...........................................................................................V-1 B. Pit Measurements/Automatic Pin Setting Device .........................................................V-2 C. Automatic Scoring Device/Automatic Foul Detecting Device .....................................V-3

VI. Lane Certification/Inspection A. Application/Inspection....................................................................................................VI-1 B. Issuance...........................................................................................................................VI-1 C. Representation ................................................................................................................VI-1 D. Retention..........................................................................................................................VI-1 E. Penalty for noncompliance............................................................................................VI-2 F. Noncompliance Procedures ..........................................................................................VI-2

G. Miscellaneous .................................................................................................................VI-2

VII. Lane Dressings & Lane Dressing Measuring Equipment A. Technical Specifications for Lane Dressing................................................................VII-1 B. Technical Specifications for Lane Dressing Tape Take Up Device...........................VII-1 C. Technical Specifications for Ultra Violet Sensitive Tape Reader ..............................VII-2 D. Technical Specifications for Lane Dressing Pick Up Tape........................................VII-3

VIII. Test Procedures & Scoring Criteria A. Manufacturer's Field Test Program for Products ......................................................VIII-1 B. Manufacturer's Field Test Program for Pins ..............................................................VIII-1 C. Procedures for Bowling Ball Approval .......................................................................VIII-2 D. Procedures for Product Test........................................................................................VIII-3 E. Procedures for Pin Test................................................................................................VIII-3 F. Pin and Product Testing Timeframe............................................................................VIII-4 G. Scoring Level for Approval ..........................................................................................VIII-4

IX. Appendixes A. Testing for Moment of Inertia and Radius of Gyration of Bowling Pins ...................IX-1 B. Resurfacing Requirements ............................................................................................IX-3 C. Method of Test for Moment of Inertia and Radius of Gyration of Bowling Ball .......IX-4 D. Method of Test for Coefficient of Restitution...............................................................IX-7 E. Method of Test for Coefficient of Friction Bowling Balls............................................IX-9 F. Method of Test for Coefficient of Friction of Lane Surfaces ....................................IX-10 G. Method of Test for Mohs' Hardness on a Cover Stock of a Bowling Ball ...............IX-11 H. Method of Test for Sward Hardness on a Synthetic Lane Surface..........................IX-12 I. Bowling Ball Submittal Specifications........................................................................IX-13 J. Bowling Ball Testing Fee Schedule.............................................................................IX-14 K. Pin and Product Testing Fees......................................................................................IX-15

X. Glossary

Markings Any bowling ball used in USBC certified competition must be approved and identifiable as a ball listed in the “approved bowling ball” list located on the Equipment Specifications page on www.bowl.com. Additionally, for identification purposes, each ball must have some form of serial number (this may be engraved or re-engraved by the bowler). Since all bowling balls manufactured prior to the creation of the ball list (January 1991) have been previous-ly approved, the acceptance of these balls is at the discre-tion of the tournament director and/or league official.

Material:

1. The ball shall be constructed of solid material ie: no liquids, and without voids in its interior.

2. Any materials added to or included in the coverstock shall be equally distributed throughout the entire coverstock of the ball, except for materials used in logos and other required markings.

3. The density of any piece/component in a ball (i.e.: core, coverstock, weight block, etc.) shall not exceed

3.80 g/mL (i.e.: no pure metals or high density materials).

4. Following approval of the ball, the introduction of substances that are not comparable to the original material used in manufacturing of a bowling ball is prohibited. Likewise, altering a bowling ball in any way so as to increase its weight or cause it to be off balance outside the specifications is prohibited.

Surface:

The surface of the ball shall be free of all depressions or grooves of specific pattern, except for holes or indenta-tions used for gripping the ball, identification lettering and numbers, and incidental chipping or marking caused by wear. Engraved pictures are not considered grooves of specific pattern.

No foreign material may be placed on the outer surface of the ball.

If the surface friction of the ball is altered by sanding or polishing, the entire surface of the ball must be sanded or polished in the same manner.

Plugs and grips may not extend beyond the surface of the ball.

Weight:

The weight of the ball shall not exceed 16.00 pounds.

There is no minimum weight.

Hardness:

1. The surface hardness of bowling balls shall not be less than 72 durometer D at room temperature (68 - 78 degrees F).

2. The use of chemicals, solvents or other methods to change the hardness of the surface of the ball after it is manufactured is prohibited.

Cleaning:

Cleaners may be used provided:

1. They do not affect the hardness of the ball.

2. They are totally removed from the ball before delivery.

Any ball cleaner which does not conform to any of these provisions may not be used in USBC certified competition.

Devices:

Movable devices are not permitted in a ball except that a device for changing the finger span or the size of finger and thumb holes may be inserted, providing the device is locked in position during delivery and cannot be removed from the ball without destroying the device.

(Excluding tape in a gripping hole.)

Removable devices shall be permitted, provided:

1. Such devices are used for changing the span, pitch or size of the gripping holes

2. Are constructed of a non- metallic material.

3. Are locked in position during delivery.

4. No device shall be employed for the purpose of adjusting the static balance of the ball.

5. No voids shall be permitted under the device.

6. Density not to exceed 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter.

Mechanical Aids:

A bowling ball must be delivered entirely by manual means and shall not incorporate any device either in the ball or affixed to it which is either detached at time of delivery or is a moving part in the ball during delivery, except that any person whose hand or major portion there-of has been amputated may use special equipment to aid in grasping and delivering the ball provided the special equipment is in lieu of the amputee’s hand (see USBC Rule Book for further clarification).

Plugs and Designs/Logos:

1. Plugs may be inserted for the purpose of redrilling the ball.

2. Designs may be imbedded in the ball for guides, observation, or identification purposes, provided such designs are flush with the outer surface of the ball.

3. In all cases there shall be no interior voids.

4. Plugs and designs must be made of material similar to, although not exactly the same as the original material of which the ball was made, and shall otherwise comply with all other specifications for a bowling ball.

5. Density not to exceed 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter.

BOWLING BALL SPECIFICATIONS

PAGE I-1

Circumference and Diameter:

A bowling ball shall not have a circumference of more than 27.002 inches (diameter of 8.595 inches) nor less than 26.704 inches (diameter of 8.500 inches).

Roundness:

A bowling ball shall be spherical and shall not be out of round by more than 0.010 inches.

Hardness:

The surface hardness of a bowling ball shall not be less than 72 durometer D.

Radius of Gyration:

The radius of gyration of a 13.00 lb. or more bowling ball, about any axis, shall not be less than 2.430 inches nor more than 2.800 inches. In addition, the maximum differential radius of gyration between any two axes of the same ball shall not exceed 0.060 inches. These shall be tested in accordance with an USBC approved test procedure (see Appendix C).

Marking:

Each ball must be uniquely identifiable by the following:

1. Brand Name/Logo

2. Ball Name

3. Individual Serial Number

4. USBC Star logo (examples at right)

Center of Gravity (CG) Marking Location:

The center of gravity (CG) of an un-drilled ball must be clearly identifiable by a unique mark or indicator.

Coefficient of Restitution:

The coefficient of restitution of a 13.00 lb. or more bowling ball shall not be less than 0.650 nor greater than

0.750 when tested in accordance with an USBC approved test procedure (see Appendix D).

Coefficient of Friction:

The coefficient of friction of a 13.00 lb or more bowling ball shall not exceed 0.320 when tested in accordance with an USBC approved test procedure at a relative humidity of between 30% and 50% (see Appendix E).

The ball may be tested anywhere between 320 grit to 3000 polish.

Approval Logos:

All boxes in which approved bowling balls are distrib-uted must be clearly marked with the following approval logo which must be a minimum of 3 inches in diameter:

BALL MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS

PAGE I-2

The USBC Equipment Specifications & Certification Committee may establish specifications for a bowling ball as to roundness, size, materials, and physical properties. A manufacturer producing any new ball, shall submit samples to the USBC Equipment Specifications Department for testing. Any re-released ball must meet all current specifications. (See procedure for Bowling Ball Approval.) For additional submittal requirements see Appendix I and J. Any ball used in certi-fied competition must be USBC approved.

1. Circumference

2. Diameter

3. Roundness

4. Hardness (durometer D)

5. Radius of gyration*

6. Differential radius of gyration*

7. Coefficient of restitution*

8. Coefficient of friction*

9. Mohs’ Hardness

Minimum 26.704” 8.500” none

2.430” none 0.650 none none

Maximum 27.002” 8.595”

0.010” total runout none

2.800” 0.060” 0.750 0.320 6.0

* These specifications are for balls weighing 13.00 pounds or greater.

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS

At time of manufacture, all balls must meet the follow-ing technical specifications when tested at room tem-perature (68-78 degrees F):

Holes:

The following limitations shall govern the drilling of holes in the ball:

1. Holes or indentations, not to exceed five (5), for gripping purposes. The player is not required to use all the holes in any specific delivery, but they must be able to demonstrate that each hole can reason-ably be used for gripping purposes. Any hole that cannot be reasonably shown to be used with a sin-gle hand would be classified as a balance hole.

2. One hole for balance purposes not to exceed 1-1/4 inch diameter. (Including the surface opening).

3. No more than one vent hole to each finger and/or thumb hole not to exceed 1/4 inch in diameter (in-cluding the surface opening). This hole may not ex-ceed 1-1/4 inch at any point through the depth of the hole.

4. One mill hole for inspection purposes not to exceed 5/8 inch in diameter and 1/8 inch in depth.

Balance:

The following tolerances shall be permissible in the bal-ance of a bowling ball used in certified competition:

1. 10.01 pounds or more:

a. Not more than 3 ounces difference between top half of the ball (finger hole side) and the bottom half (side opposite the finger holes).

b. Not more than 1 ounce difference between the sides to the right and left of the finger holes or between the sides in front and back of the finger holes.

c. A ball drilled without a thumb hole may not have more than 1 ounce difference between any two halves of the ball.

d. A ball drilled without any finger holes or inden-tations, may not have more than 1 ounce differ-ence between any two halves of the ball.

e. A ball used without any hole or indentations may not have more than 1 ounce difference be-tween any two halves of the ball.

2. For a ball weighing 10.0 pounds to 8.0 pounds:

a. Not more than 2 ounces difference between top half of the ball (finger hole side) and the bottom half (side opposite the finger holes).

b. Not more than 3/4 ounce difference between the sides to the right and left of the finger holes or between the sides in front and back of the finger holes.

c. A ball drilled without a thumb hole may not have more than 3/4 ounce difference between any two halves of the ball.

d. A ball drilled without any finger holes or inden-tations, may not have more than 3/4 ounce dif-ference between any two halves of the ball.

e. A ball used without any hole or indentations may not have more than 3/4 ounce difference between any two halves of the ball.

3. Less than 8.0 pounds:

a. Not more than 3/4 ounce difference between the top half of the ball (finger hole side) and the bot-tom half (side opposite the finger holes).

b. Not more than 3/4 ounce difference between the sides to the right and left of the finger holes or between the sides in front and back of the finger holes.

c. A ball drilled without a thumb hole may not have more than 3/4 ounce difference between any two halves of the ball.

d. A ball drilled without any finger holes or inden-tations, may not have more than 3/4 ounce dif-ference between any two halves of the ball.

e. A ball used without any hole or indentations may not have more than 3/4 ounce difference between any two halves of the ball.

DRILLING SPECIFICATIONS

PAGE I-3

LS RS

THUMB HOLE

(BACK)

(FRONT)

FINGER HOLES

Determining the Center of Grip Prior to 2007, the center of the grip was determined by locating the center of each hole and drawing lines to dis-sect the grip horizontally and vertically. The new speci-fication will dictate that the center of grip is to be deter-mined by measuring from the cut (or front edge) of each finger hole to the front edge of the thumb hole. If more than two finger holes are used, the center of grip will be determined by averaging the distance between each fin-ger hole and the thumb hole. All holes drilled for grip-ping purposes must be used (and must be capable of be-ing used) by the same hand.

Plugs & Designs:

1. Plugs may be inserted for the purpose of redrilling the ball. A slug may only be used in place of plug-ging a thumb or finger hole when a new weight hole is drilled completely through the slug. If no hole is drilled, this will leave a void at the base of the slug, thus considered out of compliance.

2. Designs may be imbedded in the ball for guides, observation or identification purposes, provided such designs are flush with the outer surface of the ball.

3. In all cases there shall be no interior voids.

4. Plugs and designs must be made of material similar to, although not exactly the same as, the original material out of which the ball was made, and shall otherwise comply with other specifications for a bowling ball.

5. No foreign material may be placed on the outer sur-face of the ball. Nor may any foreign materials be placed in a weight hole including but not limited to tape, paint, or white out.

PAGE I-4

Material:

USBC approved pins shall be made of new (unused), sound, hard maple. Pins constructed of material other than hard maple may be used in USBC certified competition provided they comply with the technical specifications and have been approved and given an USBC permit number.

Editor’s Note: Sound means that the wood shall be free of any decay that has advanced to a point where it can be recognized by color or softening of the wood and shall not have the following defects:

1. Cracks due to drying of the wood.

2. Skip, torn or chipped grain in ball zone exceeding a

2 square-inch area or having a maximum depth greater than 1/8 inch.

3. Open glue joints in laminated pins due to either uneven facing surfaces, inadequate glue pressure or poor gluing.

4. Cross grain exceeding slope of 1 inch in 10 inches.

5. Knots and bark pockets with maximum dimension exceeding 1/4 inch in neck, 3/8 inch at pin bottom, 1 inch in head and 1 3/4 inches in ball zone.

Type of Construction:

Each pin may be constructed of one, or laminated of two or more pieces, provided the pins meet USBC specifica-tions. All lamination shall run parallel to the vertical axis of the pin.

Adhesives:

Adhesives used in laminating pins should be of such types that they will withstand the forces of temperature, mois-ture and play that occur in service of a bowling pin, and they should be sufficiently durable to provide satisfactory quality joints during the life of the pin. Only adhesives conforming to the quality required by commercial standards, or federal specifications for the appropriate adhesive, should be used.

It is advisable to obtain certification from the adhesive manufacturer that the adhesive is acceptable for laminat-ing wood for bowling pins.

The bonding quality of the glue must not be affected by any process presently being used in the manufacture of any USBC approved plastic coated pins.

Mixing, spreading, storage, working and assembly life should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recom-mendations.

Each lot of adhesive should be certified as conforming to the applicable specifications.

Gluing procedures should conform to those described in the Forest Products Laboratory (U.S. Department of Agriculture) manual entitled “Fabrication and Design of Glued Laminated Wood Structural Members.”

Weight:

Standard wood pin..................3 lbs., 6 ozs. 3lbs., 10 ozs.

Plastic coated (wood core)......3 lbs., 6 ozs. 3lbs., 10 ozs.

Nonwood (synthetic) pin will set its own weight limit at time of testing. The weight range may not exceed a total of 2 ounces from minimum to maximum and any pin out of its approved weight range is unacceptable for USBC certified competition.

Center of Gravity:

The center of gravity of any tenpin shall be measured from the bottom of the pin. This measurement shall not be higher than 5-60/64 nor lower than 5-40/64 inches except synthetic pins (see Technical Specifications For Non- Wood Synthetic Pins).

Radius of Gyration:

The radius of gyration, measured around the horizontal axis through the center of gravity, for all pins shall be

3.727 inches, plus/minus .094 inches except for synthetic pins (see Technical Specifications For Non-Wood Synthetic Pins).

Such determination of the above specification shall be accomplished under the bifilar method (see Appendix A).

USBC TENPIN SPECIFICATIONS

PAGE II-1

Not less than

Not more than

Moisture Content:

Moisture content at time of manufacture of all non-syn-thetic tenpins shall not be less than 6 percent nor more than 12 percent. In laminated pins, the individual pieces should not vary more than 2 percent in moisture content at the time of gluing.

Finish:

Single piece or laminated maple tenpins shall be finished with regularly accepted wood finishes. Regular wood finishes of 4/1000 inch film thickness are acceptable. Any tenpin with a film thickness in excess of 4/1000 inch shall be submitted to USBC for testing and approval.

(See Technical Specification for Wood Core Plastic Coated Pins).

Pins used in USBC certified competition shall only bear the name and trademark of the original manufacturer or distributor and be marked “USBC Approved”. Except for reasonable wear, neck markings and color, the pins in each set must be uniform in appearance including fin-ish and labels.

Coatings:

The coating of single piece or laminated maple tenpins must be transparent (clear) or solid color with the excep-tion of neck markings, identifying symbols or name which must be clearly visible or of a contrasting color.

Coefficient of Restitution:

The coefficient of restitution of a bowling pin shall not be less than .605 nor greater than .735 when tested in accordance with an USBC approved test procedure.

Hardness:

Hardness determinations of the coating shall be established by a scleroscope hardness test. Minimum and Maximum hardness values shall be established for each specific approved plastic coating, which shall be calculated from 10 measurement readings from 1 to 1-1/2 inches apart at the largest diameter on the pin, 4-3/4 inches above the pin base. The specification for each pin will be set at the average of these readings with a tolerance of plus/minus 10.

Design and Measurements:

The height of each pin shall be 15 inches, plus /minus 1/32 inch.

The top of the pin shall have a uniform arc with a radius of 1.273 inches. A plus/minus tolerance of 1/32 inch shall be permitted.

All diameter tolerances shall be plus/minus 1/32 inch.

The taper from station to station shall be gradual so that all lines have a graceful curve.

PAGE II-2

BOWLING PIN DIMENSIONS

PAGE II-3

STATION SPECIFICATION TOLERANCE

Diameter Maximum Minimum

13 1/2” Above Base 2.547” 2.578” 2.516”

12 5/8” Above Base 2.406” 2.437” 2.375”

11 3/4” Above Base 2.094” 2.125” 2.063”

10 7/8” Above Base 1.870” 1.901” 1.839”

10” Above Base 1.797” 1.828” 1.766”

9 3/8” Above Base 1.965” 1.996” 1.934”

8 5/8” Above Base 2.472” 2.503” 2.441”

7 1/4” Above Base 3.703” 3.734” 3.672”

5 7/8” Above Base 4.563” 4.594” 4.532”

4 1/2” Above Base 4.766” 4.797” 4.735”

3 3/8” Above Base 4.510” 4.541” 4.479”

2 1/4” Above Base 3.906” 3.937” 3.875” 3/4” Above Base 2.828” 2.859” 2.797”

Base – with 5/32” radius – Flat Diameter 2.031” 2.062” 2.000”

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS TOLERANCE

Maximum Minimum

Height 15” (15.000”) 15.031” 14.969”

* Hole Depth (Standard, not specification) 2” ( 2.000”) 2.031” 1.969”

Hole Size 27/64” ( 0.422”) 0.453” 0.406”

* Cup Diameter (Standard, not specification) 3/4” ( 0.750”) 0.781” 0.734”

Radius at Base 5/32” ( 0.156”) 0.187” 0.125”

Center of Gravity 5 50/64” ( 5.781”) 5.937” 5.625”

5 60/64” 5 40/64”

Radius of Gyration 3.727” 3.821” 3.633”

Moisture Content 12% 6%

Coefficient of Restitution ( 0.670”) 0.735” 0.605”

PAGE II-4

B O

W L

IN

G

P

IN

M E

A S

U R

E M

E N

T S

P E

C

IF

IC

A

T

IO

N S

1 /

2”

5 /

8”

3 / 4”

7 /

8”

/8

/8

/4

/8

/2

/8

/4

3 /

4”

Bases:

No part of the base shall protrude beyond the base attachment, but that portion of the base within the base attachment may be recessed as much as .025 inch.

As an alternate specification, the area of the base within the base attachment may be concave so that it is recessed at least .025 inch at the junction with the base attachment, gradually declining toward the center to a depth of .125 inch.

When any portion of the pin protrudes beyond the base attachment such pin is unacceptable for USBC certified competition until necessary corrections have been made to comply with the foregoing specifications.

All pins shall be rounded at the outer edge of the base by the manufacturer on a 5/32 inch (.156) radius with a plus or minus tolerance of 2/64 inch (.031). The diameter of the base, exclusive of the rounded edge, shall not be less than 2 inches.

Any base diameter under two inches is unacceptable for USBC certified competition. For the life of the pin.

PAGE II-5

Pivot Point of .156” Radius is located .156 from Bottom and Side of Pin as Shown, So Arc is Tangent To Both Bottom and Side of Pin

Base Diameter Not Less Than 2”

.156 Radius .000” To .025” Minus

Base Diameter Not Less Than 2”

.156 Radius .025” To .125” Minus

.156 Radius

.156

.156

.000” To .025” Minus

Plastic Base and Wood Post .000” To -.025” Recess of Wood Post.

Base Diameter Not Less Than 2”

2.250”

Base Attachments:

Base attachments must be USBC approved and manu-factured in accordance with the specifications established by the USBC Equipment Specification and Certification Committee (see specs for Base Attachments).

Label and Marking:

Pins manufactured for USBC certified competition shall bear the name and trademark of the original manufac-turer or distributor and be marked “USBC Approved.”

All pins shall bear two labels for the life of the pin. One label shall be a manufacturer’s label and it shall include the following items in its design:

1. The trade name.

2. The USBC Permit number under which USBC approval was authorized.

3. The USBC Certification mark in a size measuring at least 3/4 inch in diameter. See Certification Mark Below.

The following designation (in full or acceptable abbreviation form) must appear on the manufacturer’s label when applicable:

1. “Controlled Weight”

2. “Densified”

3. “Plastic Coated”

4. Reference to type of reinforcement (i.e. “nylon reinforced”)

5. Synthetic

6. Refurbisher’s Permit Number

Manufacturers or distributors shall use a distinctive label, reserved exclusively for pins meeting USBC specifications.

In addition to the manufacturer’s label, a second label shall be a special “USBC Label” made in conformity to design provided by the USBC. It shall be affixed diametrically opposite the manufacturer’s label and not measure less than 2” in diameter.

PAGE II-6

2-3/16” — TOLERANCE 3/16” PLUS

Figure A

7/8”

MAXIMUM

3/8”

MAXIMUM

1/4” 1/4”

1-11/16”

TOLERANCES 3/16” PLUS

5/16” MINUS

BASE DIAMETER

NOT LESS THAN 2”

.000” to .025” MINUS5/32” RADIUS, TOLERANCE

PLUS OR MINUS 1/32”

Figure B

2-6/16” — TOLERANCE 3/16” MINUS

7/8”

MAXIMUM

3/8”

MAXIMUM

.025” MINUS TO .125” MINUS 1-3/8”

TOLERANCE 3/16” PLUS

BASE DIAMETER

NOT LESS THAN 2”

5/32” RADIUS

Figure C

7/8”

MAXIMUM

3/8”

MAXIMUM

5/32” RADIUS

1-3/8”

TOLERANCE 8/16” PLUS

BASE DIAMETER

NOT LESS THAN 2”

2-6/16” — TOLERANCE 3/16” MINUS

“USBC Label” USBC Certification Mark

United States Bowling Congress is the owner of the following certification marks applied to tenpins by the manufacturer to certify the tenpins meet USBC specifications.

Tenpins having the proper certification mark are approved for use in competition certified by the United States Bowling Congress.

(1) Applies to all tenpins

(2) Applies to approved plastic coated wood tenpins

(3) Applies to approved synthetic tenpins

(4) Applies to all test pins

PAGE II-7

USBC® REGISTERED SERVICE MARK

Procedure for USBC Approval:

Four pins (wood core) of each grade with a coating thickness of .004 inch or more to be used in certified competition shall be submitted to the USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification Department for evalua-tion prior to being tested for approval. The department will provide further details on test procedures.

Manufacturers and/or distributors who, under their own trademark or name, sell tenpins produced to these specifi-cations shall file an application for approval with USBC stating the manufacturer’s name with a copy of the trade-mark or trade name under which such tenpins are sold.

This application shall be manually signed by a company officer or another authorized person.

Manufacturers and distributors shall furnish USBC with a sample of each type label affixed to the approved pins.

Renewal of USBC Permit:

Each year all manufacturers and distributors shall complete and return an application supplied by USBC. In addition, one pin of each grade with a coating thickness of less than .004 inch and/or four pins with a coating thickness of greater than .004 inch shall be submitted for examination to ensure continued compliance with USBC specifications.

The USBC shall be further authorized to select one or more pins from a manufacturer or distributor’s open stock at cost for testing purposes at any time. The Equipment Specifications and Certification Department shall submit a detailed report to the manufacturer or distributor on each grade of pins which shall clearly explain any deviation from the approved specifications.

Manufacturers of tenpins which meet USBC specifica-tions shall submit an application for approval stating the trade name by which such tenpins will be designated and that they will be produced in conformity with these specifications. This application shall be manu-ally signed by a company officer or another authorized person.

In the event pins do not meet USBC specifications, additional tests will be required.

Spot check of pins in production to ensure that pins meet specifications is to be made daily by the manufacturer.

Maintenance of Pins:

The use of steel wool or sandpaper to remove dirt and surface splinters, the application of supplementary fin-ish and/or the patching of plastic coated pins are per-missible preservative measures providing these prac-tices conform to the procedures outlined in this manual.

At no time may a pin be painted or any supplemental finish be applied that has not been evaluated and approved by USBC

Supplementary Finish:

A preservative coat of USBC acceptable finish will be permissible provided the total accumulation of all such coats conform to the contour of the pin, does not exceed .006 inches and does not obscure, obliterate or destroy the original labels (substitute labels will not be acceptable).

At no time may a pin be painted or any supplemental finish be applied that has not been evaluated and approved by USBC.

Patching Plastic Coated Pins:

Surface patching of the pin below the neck must con-form to the contour of the pin, shall not exceed a total of 6 square inches, providing no single surface patch exceeds 2 square inches. Such surface patching shall be accomplished so it does not obscure, obliterate or destroy the original labels.

Head Patching Plastic Coated Pins:

The materials used for head patching shall be limited to plastic patching material or white pigmented lacquer.

No synthetic reinforcing material (knitted cap, etc.) is permitted except those which have been examined and accepted by USBC.

Pins that have been stripped of the original plastic coat, turned down or trimmed, shall not be accepted for USBC certified competition. The same is true for any procedure which destroys or alters the radius of the pin base attachment or base flat diameter, normal wear and tear excepted.

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Coating Average

.001 - .075”

.076 - .100”

.101 - And Above

Wood core (plastic coated) tenpins must meet the require-ments listed under USBC Tenpin Specifications plus the following:

Scope:

Each specific type and grade of material to be used as a pin coating must be submitted to USBC for testing and approval before it may be applied to tenpins which are acceptable in USBC certified competition.

Any combination of coating and reinforcing material for tenpins, not covered by an USBC specification, shall be submitted to the USBC for testing and approval.

Application of such coating to tenpins to be used in sanc-tioned play shall be in accordance with any additional specifications required.

Color:

The coating shall be solid color and/or transparent (clear) with the exception of neck markings identification symbols and names which must be of contrasting color.

Quality of Maple:

Only maple cores, either single piece or laminated, com-posed of new (unused), sound, hard maple may be used in plastic coated tenpins.

Thickness:

Specific coating thickness for each type of plastic coated pin will be developed independently with each manufac-turer at the head, neck, ball line and base. The following tolerance will apply:

These tolerances are individually applicable at the head, neck, ball line and base locations based on the average of 10 equidistant measurements around the pin.

In addition, the measured coating must fall within the minimum/maximum tolerance (as determined from average measurements at the time of permit issuance) for each of the 10 measurements.

Bases:

Pins with coatings of the type herein described must be equipped with an USBC approved base. (If a base attach-ment is used see page concerning base attachments.)

Bond and Finish:

The coatings shall adhere to the wood and be finished to minimize dirt pickup.

Durability:

Coatings over .004 inch and up to .010 inch thick: Field tests must indicate that such tenpins shall remain in play for at least 800 games, with not more than 10 percent of the pins in play showing 2 square inches of coating loss, slabbing or breakage in the ball line.

Coatings over .010 inch thick: Field tests by USBC must indicate that such tenpins will remain in play for at least 1,000 games, with the following conditions:

1. Not over 5 percent of the pins in play shall show two square inches of coating loss at the ball line.

2. Not more than 2 percent of the pins in play shall show wood failure at the neck.

Scoreabiltiy:

Scoreability of the coated tenpin shall be comparable to that of conventionally finished pins. The pinfall and action must not be noticeably different than conventional pins and the scoring level of the coated pins shall be comparable to that of all wood pins as determined in tests by USBC.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR WOOD CORE

(PLASTIC COATED) TENPINS

Tolerance

Plus or Minus .015”

Plus or Minus .020”

Plus or Minus .025”

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR NONWOOD

(SYNTHETIC) TENPINS

Any bowling pin that is not made of wood shall be classi-fied as a synthetic tenpin.

Approval:

Each specific type and grade of synthetic tenpin must be submitted to USBC for testing and approval before it can be used in USBC certified competition. Approval agree-ments of any synthetic pin must be manually signed by an authorized company representative and countersigned by an USBC designated officer.

Color:

The coating shall be solid color and/or transparent (clear) with the exception of neck markings identification symbols and names which must be of contrasting color.

Material:

1. Manufacturer’s specifications for (type of pin) dated to produce following or additional physical properties: Type of Material Tensile Strength p.s.i.

Tear min. die (ASTM) Elongation min. Modulus of compression min. (at percent) Scleroscope hardness min max mean (Hardness values effective after hours, or days mold, air, or forced cure time.)

Test on Shore scleroscope, Model C-2, with diamond head hammer. Calculations obtained from average of ten (10) readings varying 1 to 1 1/2 inches apart at 4 3/4 inches above pin base.

2. Thickness (if applicable):

Individual measurement points, amount and tolerances to be established by laboratory test and mutual agreement if applicable.

(additional measurements if required) (Height from base approximate, not specific.)

Weight:

Synthetic pins will establish their own weight requirement and tolerance at time of testing provided this tolerance does not exceed a total of 2 ounces.

Core Filling: (if applicable) Physical properties and others if applicable.

Material Weight of fill material .oz. plus/minus oz.

Density pounds Tensile Strength pounds per square inch Yield p.s.i.

Tear p.s.i.

Elongation percent

Exterior Coatings: (If Applicable) The material shall establish, upon laboratory test and mutual agreement, its own physical property specifica-tions, some of which may include: Tensile strength, yield, tear, elongation, hardness and others if applicable.

Balance:

Pins to be balanced around the vertical axis with a maximum tolerance of five grams.

Measurements:

The finished pin, complete with base attachment (if appli-cable), shall be of the size prescribed in USBC Bowling Pin Specifications.

Base Attachment:

Attachment must have USBC approval and comply with technical specifications outlined for base attachments.

Center of Gravity:

Pins will set their own center of gravity and tolerance based on the samples submitted at time of testing provid-ed the tolerance does not exceed plus/minus 5/32 inch.

The manufacturer of tenpins described herein shall have a device approved by USBC to pinpoint the exact center of gravity. A daily spot check of pins in production to insure specification compliance is mandated.

Radius of Gyration:

Pins will set their own radius of gyration and tolerance based on the samples submitted at time of testing provid-ed the tolerance does not exceed plus/minus .094 inch.

Such determination of the above specification shall be accomplished under the bifilar method (see Appendix A).

Scoreability:

Scoreability of the synthetic tenpin shall be comparable to the scoring level of a plastic coated wood core pin as determined in USBC tests.

Durability:

Field tests conducted by USBC must indicate that such tenpins will remain in play for at least 2,000 impact games (impact game is predicated on usage in automatic pinset-ting devices using 20 or 21 pins, i.e. each 10 frame game is equal to 1/2 impact game) per set. Breakage not to exceed 5 percent in the area from the shoulder to and including the base, and not more than 2 percent at or above the neck, based on the volume of pins under test.

Labels — Two:

1. Manufacturer’s Label:

(see Label and Marking section under USBC Tenpin Specifications). USBC Certification Mark not less than 3/4 inch diameter. USBC permit number with a prefix letter “S.”

2. USBC Label:

Affixed diametrically opposite the manufacturer’s label. Label shall be a special “USBC” label for synthetic pins made in conformity to a design provided by USBC

Height Above Base Minimum Maximum Mean

Controlled weight pins may be classified as USBC approved upon compliance with the following require-ments:

1. To control the weight of wood core tenpins in order to provide uniformity within applicable weight requirements, the pin may be constructed with voids in its core, provided that such voids do not affect the pin balance around the longitudinal axis nor appreciably alter pin performance characteristics through its normal life, and provided further that the pin otherwise conforms to all specifications for a wood core plastic coated pin.

2. Any void in a pin must extend through the center block, or if not must be balanced by an equal and oppositely placed void on the same axis, and such axis must not be oblique to the longitudinal axis.

3. The manufacturer shall employ an USBC accepted device to check such pins accurately for center of gravity tolerances, and spot checks of pins in production shall be made daily to ensure that they meet specification.

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CONTROLLED WEIGHT PINS

Plastic base attachments are those exposed on the outer edge of the tenpin bases when such pins are used for USBC certified competition.

1. No part of the base shall protrude beyond the base attachment, but the portion within the base attachment may be recessed as much as .025 inch.

As an alternate specification, the area of the base within the base attachment may be concave so that it is recessed at least .025 inch at the junction with the base attachment, gradually declining toward the center to a depth of .125 inch.

When any portion of the pin protrudes beyond the base attachment, such pin is unacceptable for USBC certified competition until necessary corrections have been made to comply with the foregoing specifications.

2. The base must be free of defective workmanship, machine marks and warpage.

3. The base attachment shall have a minimum 13/8 inch inside diameter. The overall flat surface of the pin base, including the base attachment, shall not be less than 2 inches.

Such base attachments may extend a maximum of 3/8 inch above the base on the outside of the pin. It may be embedded not more than 7/8 inch above the base. Other dimensions shall meet USBC General Tenpin Specifications.

Base attachments which differ in design from the illustrations in Figures A, B and C are permissible only when they do not exceed any of the prescribed measurement tolerances herein set forth and provided such change in design is not exposed to outer surface of the pin, and further provided such change in design has been submitted to USBC and approved by

USBC

4. The maximum specific gravity of the plastic material used for all base attachments may not be more than

1.45 inch, as measured in accordance with the techniques prescribed by the American Society for Testing Materials.

5. The scleroscope hardness values obtained shall be 42-52. (See Figures A, B and C for typical acceptable plastic base attachments.)

PLASTIC BASE ATTACHMENTS

A bowling pin shall be classified as densified when by a separate manufacturing operation, it has an area or areas where the wood is compressed, or impregnated and compressed, and the wood stabilized at the increased density so that it does not recover at the relative humidi-ties that occur in service. The density shall be increased sufficiently so the hardness as measured by the Janka ball test (ASTM D-143-52 Sections 83 to 87) of the den-sified portion shall be at least 75 percent more than the undensified wood of the same pin.

The maple used in such wood modification in the ball line area shall be new (unused), sound, hard maple of the quali-ty prescribed in USBC Bowling Pin Specifications.

All densified tenpins must meed the same specifications as outlined under “USBC Tenpin Specifications” as well as specifications for wood core plastic coated pins.

DENSIFIED TENPIN

In the construction of a synthetic fibre reinforced tenpin, the reinforced coating shall meet the following specifi-cations:

1. Sufficient base coat material(s) shall assure good adherence of the coatings to the wood.

2. The basic material(s) used to assure longer life to the product shall be comprised basically of gel lacquer and a synthetic fibre reinforcing material which shall be incorporated in the gel lacquer. The reinforcing material shall be at least four inches in width with the bottom edge from two to three inches from the base.

3. The finished product shall contain a top coat material of sufficient thickness to assure minimum dirt pickup throughout the usable life of the pin.

4. The durability and scoreability of this synthetic fibre reinforced pin shall be determined on the basis outlined in the general specifications for wood core plastic coated tenpins more than .010 inch.

5. All synthetic fibre reinforced plastic coated pins shall be labeled and marked in compliance with the provision outlined in the section identified as “Label and Marking.” Synthetic fibre reinforced plastic coated pins must also bear the inscription “With (name of material)” or some similar reference to the synthetic fibre reinforcing material.

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REFURBISHED TENPINS

Any wood core plastic coated tenpin, to which a full nylon sock and additional plastic coating has been added, or any other modification not covered under nor-mal maintenance of pins, shall be considered a refur-bished pin. All pins must be approved by USBC and meet the following specifications:

1. Only approved wood core plastic coated pins may be refurbished.

2. Both original labels on the pin must not be covered in any way.

3. The 2-inch base diameter must be restored to the pin if lost through normal wear.

4. The refurbisher label must include the trade name and permit identification number assigned to that refurbisher.

5. The label shall be so applied to remain clearly legible and last the life of the pin.

In addition, the injection of material under the plastic coating of a pin shall be considered a refurbishing process and must be submitted for approval by USBC.

Renewal of USBC Permit:

Each year all refurbishers shall complete and return an applicaton supplied by USBC. In addition two pins shall be submitted for examination to insure continued com-pliance with USBC specifications. The USBC Equipment Specifications Department shall submit a report to the refurbisher of pins which shall clearly explain any deviation from the approved specifications.

Refurbishers of tenpins which meet USBC specifica-tions shall submit an application for approval stating the trade name by which such tenpins will be designated and that they will be produced in conformity with these specifications.

This application shall be manually signed by a company officer or another authorized person.

In the event pins do not meet USBC specifications, additional tests will be required.

SYNTHETIC FIBRE REINFORCED COATINGS

A regulation bowling lane, including flat gutters, kick-backs and approach, must be constructed of wood and/or other materials which have been tested according to USBC procedures for the specified time period and approved.

Note: For areas beyond the pin deck not covered in the USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification Manual, standard installation procedures are acceptable unless, upon inspection, it is deemed that an area in ques-tion may affect specifications and/or scoring.