Peter Coggins had asked about materials for use in orchestra bells. I
have used both the steel and the aluminum bells for my fairground organs.
Both types were made by Deegan.

In the course of listening, I have decided that I like the sound of the
hardened aluminum bars hit with wooden hammers (1 1/8" dia hardwood balls)
much more than the steel bars hit with the same wooden hammers.  The
sound, to me, is less dissonant, smoother, and calming.  While the steel
bars seem to hurt my ears more and prompt me to get away from the organ.
Perhaps it is due to the arrangements that I do because I use the bells
to their fullest capacity.  No tinkling, tink, thik for me.

Now, if one likes the sound of steel beaters hitting steel bars, then that
is the way to go.  I have experimented with oil hardening tool steel
ground stock.  It comes in 18" lengths by many thicknesses and widths.
This is a standard item used in the tool and die trades.  Making bars out
of this material will give a very good glock sound (no need to harden it).
Start out with 1/4" x 3/4 or 1" wide stock.  Find the node points by
supporting on a triangular piece of wood, mark it, then drill the mounting
holes.  Remember to counterbore (not countersink) for the mounting screw.
("Solid cap screw counterbore")

The only problem with the steel is that it rusts. So one would have to
chrome plate
the bars.  (BTW Did you know that the "chrome plating" that you see is
really a layer of nickle plate protected by a clear plating of chrome?)

I have several spare bell sets at home, both steel and aluminum that I can
sell.  Contact me via email if interested.

Supplier:

    Travers Tool Co., Inc
    128-15  26th Ave.
    Flushing, New York  11354
    (718) 886-7200

    Credit card orders for $25 or more (1990 catalog statement)

Andy LaTorre
LaTorre Orgue Mecanique
Sylva, North Carolina, USA