Hammer Flanges

Technical Tuesday - Hammer Flanges

One more component to the Hammer Assembly!  The flange is such a small, unassuming component, but a very important member of the assembly as a whole.

Hammer Assembly

The flange attaches the hammer assembly to the action rail, and it's primary purpose is to line the hammer up and hold it in the correct position to strike the corresponding string.

In most piano actions, the hammer flange is made of wood, however, some piano actions have hammer flanges made of carbon fiber composite. 

Traditional Wooden Flange (see the hinge on the right side?)

Carbon Fiber Composite Flange (holding the hammer assembly to the action rail)

The hinge motion of the hammer flange is directly correlated to the touch of the piano's keys.  This motion is a key element in controlling the motion of the hammer as it strikes the string.  If you're interested in specifics, 2-3 grams of friction is ideal for the hinge.  If there is too much friction (too tight), the hammer will have difficulty in repeating; if there is not enough friction (too loose), the hammer is unable to strike the string the same way each time.  Either way, the player is unable to control the hammer if the friction in the hammer flange hinge isn't spot on.

There!  Now, aren't you glad you asked about hammer flanges?  

See you on the 18th for the next Technical Tuesday.  There's another component - can you guess it?  We have them on our hands and feet!

DISCLAIMER:  The yada yada as the other Technical Tuesdays.  :)