An analysis of the effects of augmented temperatures on aluminum baseball bats
Authors
Advisor
Issue Date
Keyword
Degree
Department
Other Identifiers
CardCat URL
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if augmented temperatures affect post-impact ball velocity on aluminum baseball bats. Two Louisville Slugger aluminum baseball bats, and 2 dozen NCAA-P practice baseballs were utilized. Balls were dropped from a height of approximately 2.4 meters so as to rebound off the center of percussion; the impact location was observed and if it was improper the trial was called invalid and a new one was attempted. Varying temperatures ranging from 9.72 to 37.39 degrees centigrade were used to determine if there was a deviation. Three trials were performed at each temperature and recorded. A Locam camera (200 fps) was utilized to film pre and post-impact velocities. The film was analyzed and the pre and post-impact velocities were recorded. An analysis of variance statistic with post hoc analysis was used to determine if a statistical difference existed between the velocities of the baseballs and the varying temperatures of aluminum bats. The data revealed there were no significant differences between the pre-impact velocities. The data went on to disclose the fact that there were not any significant differences in the post-impact velocities either. Through constructive manipulation of the data the researcher discovered the fact that with increased pre-impact velocities will come more distinct divisions in post-impact velocities. So as while there may not be a statistical difference in this experiment, the researcher is confident that in future studies of this nature there will be a design to securing the ever elusive statistical difference.