What is the purpose of ribs on the outside of a Wayne Sewer Ball?

• A. Allow the ball's weight to be closer to the ball's center.
• B. Avoid patent infringement that would apply if a non-ribbed ball was used.
• C. Cause jet action to aid in the hydraulic flushing of the sewer line.
• D. Reinforce (strengthen) the ball.

Answer: (C)

Ribs on the outside of a Wayne Sewer Ball are there to create jet action that aids hydraulic flushing. The ribbed surface disrupts smooth flow as water is forced around the ball, producing turbulence and focused, higher-velocity jets along the pipe. Those jets scour the pipe interior and help push debris downstream, making the cleaning process more effective. So the primary purpose is to enhance flushing effectiveness through jetting action, rather than to adjust weight distribution, avoid patent issues, or reinforce the ball.