This video explores the process of creating infield mix for Major League Baseball fields. It begins with the extraction of clay from Pittsburgh red bed, a unique claystone with water-absorbing properties. The clay is mined, crushed, and processed into a fine powder. Infield mix is made by mixing clay, silt, and sand in specific proportions using a pug mill. This mix is essential for maintaining baseball infields. The cost of infield mix can range from $50,000 to $80,000, and stadiums focus on consistent maintenance to ensure a smooth playing surface. DuraEdge is a prominent supplier of infield mix for MLB teams, starting with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2005.
Sure, here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Of the 30 major league Baseball teams, 26 have infield mixes sourced from a specific location.
2. Pittsburgh red bed clay stone is unique in its reaction to water, which is essential for baseball fields.
3. Water absorption in the clay helps reduce ball bounce, similar to corkboard.
4. Mining the clay requires removing overburden layers like sandstone, gray shale, and limestone.
5. The clay is predominantly made up of illite and kaolinite, which absorb water without swelling.
6. The clay is crushed and milled into a usable product for baseball fields.
7. Excavators mine approximately 30,000 tons of clay per year, transporting it to a processing facility.
8. A REMco crusher is used to break down the clay.
9. Infield mix requires a specific proportion of clay, silt, and sand, achieved with a pug mill.
10. Three types of infield mix are created, varying in proportions for different needs.
11. Building a major league baseball infield from scratch can require up to 350 tons of infield mix.
12. Infield mix costs range from $50,000 to $80,000.
13. Maintenance involves grading the infield, adding top dressing, and rolling it to maintain consistency.
14. Checking moisture levels is crucial for infield quality.
15. Water absorption in the infield mix affects ball bounce and playability.
16. DuraEdge is a major supplier of infield mix to MLB teams, starting with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2005.