Superiority of Composite Baseball Bats: Trampoline Effect, Acoustics, Compliance and Safety
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Abstract: The superiority of composite (blended/multiple materials) baseball bats over wood bats, bolstering 10-15% higher exit velocity is attributed to the trampoline effect (bounciness) resulting from advanced materials, deliberate breaking, reduced sting vibrations, balanced weight, and an expanded sweet spot. This article systematically examines (B7: Bolstering (enhanced), Blended (composite) Baseball Bats with Bounciness, Bang (sound), and Banishment (safety), focusing on the comparative superiority of composite bats over wood bats for 12U players, where they are permitted. In a controlled environment (70 oF), the average exit velocity of a ball on the composite bat are >10% superior to those of a wood bat when hitting balls off the tee, while >15% superior when hitting balls pitched at a speed of 50 MPH. Experimentally, metal bats produced a louder (102 to 106 dB), high-pitched “bang” due to their hollow structure, while composite and wood bats emitted a quieter (91 to 95 dB), low-pitched sound, when measured close to the batter. The variation in decibels was influenced by ball speed, impact point, and bat design, affecting player perception. Composite bats gain power over time as they break in, enhancing performance but also introducing inconsistency and potentially increasing injury risk. Authors shed light on the importance of baseball safety gear for players on the diamond, helping them avoid possible injuries.
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