Maximum tension

Newton Hunt nhunt@jagat.com
Sun, 21 May 2000 15:59:51 -0400


Kristinn,

At what pitch a string will break is a function of hit's
speaking length.  A top C note of 51 mm speaking length, 13
gauge wire, 156 pounds tension and has a breaking per cent
tension of 64%.  Change the speaking length to 53 mm, 13
gauge, 168 pounds and 70% breaking tension.  70% is outside
acceptable range because any additional friction and a bit
of age and the string will break.  It does not matter what
size string you install it will break at the same pitch,
approximately.

49 to 51 mm speaking length is the acceptable range for a
piano.

In order to determine at which tension such a string will
break I would have to put on my thinking cap and math hat
and right now I am too tired for such arduous work.

		Newton




This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC