Making bridges

[David Love]

What's a scarf joint?

David Love
davidlovepianos@earthlink.net


> [Original Message]
> From: Ron Nossaman <RNossaman@cox.net>
> To: Pianotech <pianotech@ptg.org>; <davidlovepianos@earthlink.net>
> Date: 5/8/2003 5:17:29 AM
> Subject: Re: Making bridges
>
>
> >What are the arguments for and against cutting a bridge out of solid
stock
> >versus making a laminated one.
>
> Good arguments, or just arguments? In practice, both work just fine -
even 
> if the laminations are horizontal. My major concerns would be getting a 
> good scarf joint in the solid bridge, and a good cap on either type.
>
>
> >I know part of the traditional argument is
> >the transmission of different frequencies through different hardenesses
and
> >directions of grain.  It seems that some bridges were made of
combinations
> >of maple and oak veneer to accommodate this particular need.  Any truth
to
> >that?
> >
> >David Love
>
> It's true, that is part of the traditional argument. In practice, I'd be 
> truly amazed if anyone by any measuring means could tell the difference
in 
> performance. I always figured the alternating species laminations were to 
> make the veneer stack easier to bend, but that didn't seem a sexy enough 
> reason. I don't know for sure.
>
> Ron N