B&P introduces a new option to our extensive list of production barrels . The Focal 9 perforation has been designed for those customers considering pocketed barrels [also known as “high efficiency , high performance , grid style , cell style]for their next plating cylinder purchase.
  The “focal 9” is a counterbored barrel design initially produced and sold in the late 1970’s by “REGA” corporation .[note:B&P Purchased the remaining assets of REGA around 1980] And is similar in design to the B&P Plug Barrel produced in the early 1980’s , the Focal 9 is manufactured solely in pronob [polynodular] polypropylene material, the material is counterbored to 1/4” minimum material thickness with a round end mill , this counterbore is then perforated to achieve a minimum open area of 28% or more.
  Like any pocketed barrel,it has the advantages of a higher focal point area and hydrostatic pumping , faster plating , better drainage. These features are common to all pocketed barrels manufactured currently and previously by other manufacturers.
  Advantages of our design over existing and previous designs is a stronger sidewall , you can push on the perforated area all day long and not move it or break it , don’t try this with some of our competitors barrels. The pro-nob interior stops flat parts from sticking , just like our standard production barrels. The  counterbores are readily field repairable for extended service. By keeping the counterbore at commercially available material sizes ,a damaged area can be field plugged in seconds , no other companies barrel has this availability.
  Customers choice of designs , this can be readily applied to a bent , ribbed or round barrel [round is 1/2” max mat thickness],without affecting other parameters. Standard options are available as well like split doors , frame doors , sliding lock style ,composite ring gears etc.....
  This barrels best advantage ,its a B&P barrel , known nationwide for building top quality equipment in any configuration , for any manufacturers line.  Even with the phenomenal amount of orders we are getting for our existing product line,we are always striving to keep up with our customers request.
  We always try to answer every customers need , therefore a product was required.    No smoke and mirrors , no light duty throw away's , a real production barrel , that leaves the others behind.
  Can you use it? If your running normal loads ,  if your looking to speed up your plate times , increase solution flow , decrease dragout , the answer is yes.  If your running high weight loads , or extra hot baths , this may not be the choice for you. This is a standard product variation , and will affect the overall lifespan of the barrel.
  If your interested , let us know , we'll quote one for you ......
Sub note; For those of you that may be interested  , We have in our possesion a focal 9 barrel that is approximately 20yrs old , in reasonably good condition , from a local customer that has a bunch of them ,still on-line after all these years. The non -colinear arrangment of round counter-bores cannot be patented since the design was manufactured and sold during the 70’s. B&P has spoken with and maintains a business relationship with the original designer of these barrels , to insure there was no patent infringement.We provide the focal 9 perforation with the original designers best wishes.