This particular 1970's MH does not have a full fit block and does have tuning pin bushings. David Love davidlovepianos at comcast.net www.davidlovepianos.com -----Original Message----- From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf Of Nick Gravagne Sent: Saturday, August 02, 2008 9:25 AM To: 'Pianotech List' Subject: RE: MH BB Pinblock Hi All, For what it is worth it is interesting to consider the forces acting on the pinblock by the immense pull of the strings. Steinways and M&Hs do not come equipped with plate bushings, thus the rearward pull of the aggregate tension is uncompromisingly transferred via the tuning pins directly to the pinblock wood, and thence to the plate flange for resistance. But that is only part of the story; we also have a significant downward force acting on the block as well. Assuming a 5 degree lean-back of the tuning pin and a 160 pound pull (and much higher in the bass) of a single piano string, the axial load down the center of a single pin would be about 14 pounds (a 4 degree lean would cause an 11 pound axial force). The tuning pins are thus charged or "energized", and the force is directed downward to the pinblock. The 5 degree lean-back on all the pins would cause a combined downward force of about 3000 pounds. With zero degree lean-back there is no such direct downward force at all. The pinblock is also acted on by a significant rotational force or moment as well. The force to rotate the block down at the plate flange and up at the stretcher amounts to about 1500 foot pounds (depending on where we assign the actual point of rotation), and much of this is resisted also by the bass and treble supports and fit of the block all around. I have not double checked my math and trig, but it seems correct to me. The factors acting to keep all in equilibrium are several: a firm fit of the block to the plate flange (most critical), the bass and treble rim supports, a firm fit to the stretcher, the strength of the plate webbing and bracing there, and lastly, our lowly plate screws. Given a good pinblock fit all around, and a reasonable amount of cast iron and bracing, a higher tension scale should require more plate screws - and that is what we see in the higher-tensioned and larger pianos in general. Still, having said all that, it comes down to a matter of choice. Plenty of examples of well built and fine sounding pianos do not have blocks rigidly attached to the stretcher, and some cannot, like the Chickering I am currently working on. However, I think there is something to be said for full-fit treatment where the original block was so installed. Regarding the Mason in question here, we all know that most original Mason grands come equipped with full-fit blocks. That would guide me if nothing else. Nick Gravagne, RPT Piano Technicians Guild Member Society Manufacturing Engineers Voice Mail 928-476-4143
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