Re: [Harp-L] cleaning tips

[Joe and Cass Leone <leone@xxxxxxxx>]

> > The other, more famous Richard Smith (the English one) suggests
> > using effervescent type denture cleaner for cleaning harps.
> > I've heard that suggestion before, and it always sounded like a
> > terrific idea to me.  But, I remember reading somewhere that
> > this type of cleaner will "discolor" the reed plates.

 I have never noticed discoloration of the brass. The chemicals in 
"Efferdent" are not the kind that would draw molecules from the zinc 
(the 'active' metal), and since copper is noble on the galvanic scale, 
it won't dis-color either.

> >   I guess
> > this wouldn't be a big deal, if only the color is affected.
> > However, I can't help feeling that this discoloring is due to
> > some change to the metal, and that this change may also affect
> > the sound of the reeds.

 Yes, dis-coloration usually means a change in the metal is taking 
place. A strong acid or alkalai will do that, but the alkali in denture 
tablets is too mild to go more than an atom into the surface. Besides, 
it won't be soaking that long. I use only one tablet in fairly warm 
water for 13 minutes on 1/2 'set' (6).

 BTW, I also use efferdent on all my horns (sop-alt-ten-clar-flute). It 
is a lot milder than having them dipped in brass instrument cleaner and 
even though you have to use a whole pack of the stuff, it's still much 
cheaper. :)
  smokey-joe (& the Cafe s)


> >   I would really like to try this method,
> > but I'm cautiously hesitant.  Richard, do you actually use this
> > method?  Can you dispell my fears? How about some of you other
> > Harp-L'ers?
> >
> > Richard J. Smith
> > Wormleysburg, PA