Why?

[Delwin D Fandrich]

Roger,

I certainly agree with points 2, 3 and 4.  Unfortunately, I have not found
their pinning to be all that consistent.  I think it is probably the result of
the graphite used.  Since graphite is somewhat hygroscopic these centers seem
to be somewhat susceptible to variations in moisture.  We've also had more than
a few centers simply lock up tight after periods of hard play.  About point 5
-- I do not consider hornbeam to be a superior wood compared to reasonable
quality hard maple.  But it sure does machine pretty.

Del

------------------------------------------

Roger Jolly wrote:

> Hi Del,
>        There is no doubt in my own mind that Renner shanks are superior to
> any other that I've used, But there is a lot of variable's 1. Most
> cosistent pinning, with graphite coating on felt, their pinning seems a
> little firmer than most. 2. Higher quality machining far less travelling
> required. 3. Superior grain orientation. 4. Higher quality knuckles than
> most. (less cup in the leather) 5.Finally Hornbeam.
>   Now for the $64.000 question. Does the material's account for the
> difference, or is it superior machining tolerances?
>   We have both studied Harold Conklin's film of hammer travel, it would be
> interesting to see a similar film made with both materials and identical
> machining tolerences.
>   Another observation, when doing the drop/tone test on hammer shanks there
> are far less rejects from Hornbeam. Is this the material or the selection
> process?
>   As I said before I'm going by gut feel.
> Nice to hear from you as usual.
> Regards Roger
>
>
> At 07:36 PM 6/5/99 -0700, you wrote:
> >
> >
> >Roger Jolly wrote:
> >
> >> Another variable is the quality of quarter saw and straightness of grain
> >> within the shank it self.
> >> I have a gut feel that is why the Renner Hornbeam shanks are superior to
> >> the maple. I may be out to lunch on that one, just guessing.
> >> Regards Roger
> >
> >----------------------------
> >
> >And who -- besides Renner, that is -- really believes that hornbeam shanks
> are
> >superior to even relatively decent maple shanks?
> >
> >Regards,
> >
> >Del
> >
> >
> Roger Jolly
> Balwin Yamaha Piano Centres.
> Saskatoon/Regina.
> Canada.