You made a comment that is the main problem with welding. That is that there is "high heat" that causes more stress cracks. This is absolutely correct. However, the system that I INSIST my welders use is the Nickle Rod. This type of welding is at a very LOW heat, ( I suspect just varely enough to actually bond), and then, any possible "stress" is eliminated by pounding as it cools. This process leaves the plate cool enough to touch, without burning, immediately after the weld is done. I had one bad experience, where the welder tried to do the weld with an acetylene torch! BIG MISTAKE! It was the one time I didn't hang around to observe the entire procedure. ANOTHER BIG MISTAKE ON MY PART! That plate had cracks all over the place. I made him redo everything with Nickle Rod and the piano is out there, and has been for over 20years, doing what it was intended to do, make music. The Stitching system sounds like it is another viable way to salvage an otherwise trashed piano. I recall an article several years ago in the PTJ, concerning this system, but don't remember when. (I'll have to search my CD set). If it works, then great! Regards, Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon)
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