Re: [Harp-L] Steel Reeds

[Joe and Cass Leone <leone@xxxxxxxx>]

On Apr 15, 2008, at 11:11 PM, lil Buddha wrote:

> I am not a metallurgist, but from what I have read, steel does not  
> share the
> same fatigue issues brass does.
> Many metals will eventually fail even with the smallest loads; the  
> effects
> of the stress applied are cumulative. No so with steel. As long as the
> stress levels are kept below a certain level, the steel will never  
> break.
> Theoretically at least. This would indicate that those who have caused
> failure in the stainless steel reeds are blowing harder than  
> necessary,
> attaining a failure level instantly rather than cumulatively.  
> Anything can
> be broken. Failure of an object may be more the fault of the user  
> in these
> cases.
>
> Forgive me if this was addressed and I missed it.
> _
A reed must be made from anything spring. Steel is better in this  
regard, However, given the immense strength (by comparison) of steel,  
it stands to reason that the reeds would have to be MUCH thinner.  
Since there is so little material involved, ANY flaw will contribute  
to a failure.

In an accordion, the reeds are huge (by comparison), and thus there  
is less chance of failure. That, AND they have a pressure relief valve.
I agree with your synopsis

smo-joe