Re: [Harp-L] re: Breaking-in

[Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>]

The material of the SS reeds is likely to be more fatigue resistant than copper alloys.  However, unless I see evidence to the contrary, I conclude that any new SS reed is as strong as it is ever going to be and a brief period of gentle playing won't increase its fatigue resistance.  A period of gentle playing might get you into the habit of playing gently, thus causing your reeds to last longer.

Vern
  
On May 15, 2010, at 10:15 AM, msky@xxxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:

> I just sent away for a 5-pack of Seydel 1847 silvers. I generally use Sp20s, but I've enjoyed the one 1847 silver that I presently own more than any other harp I've tried, and I felt like I deserved a present from myself.
> 
> Anyway, having read Vern's comments below, and not being a metallurgist, is breaking-in a good idea for the stainless steel reeds? If so, what would be the recommended break-in method?
> 
> 
>> Surely you do not claim that there is something exceptional about harmonica reeds >that exempt them from the properties of brass or bronze.
> 
>> There is an effect called "coaxing" that occurs in iron and mild steel but not in non->ferrous alloys.  A long period of cycling at low stress followed by long periods of >increased stress at successively higher levels can increase fatigue life.  However >those conditions are not met by harmonica break-in because the reeds are not mild >steel, the break-in period is short, and there are no successive long periods of >gradually increasing stress.