Piano Hinges: What Are They Made Of?


Piano hinge by Monroe

Some hinges have longer leafs than others. Piano hinges, for instance, are designed to run the entire length of the surfaces on which they are installed. They are known as “piano hinges” because they were originally used on piano lids.

While all piano hinges are long, however, they are available in different materials. If you’re planning to buy a piano hinge, you’ll need to choose the right material. Some of the most common materials in which piano hinges are made include the following.

Aluminum

Aluminum is commonly used in the construction of piano hinges. Aluminum, of course, is a silver-colored metal with the atomic number 13. It’s used in a variety of fasteners and bearings. Screws, bolts, nuts and washers are available in aluminum. And hinges are available in aluminum.

Aluminum piano hinges are highly resistant to corrosion. This makes them a popular choice for use in humid environments. While other metals may rust and corrode when exposed to moisture, aluminum can withstand moisture.

Stainless Steel

You can find piano hinges made of stainless steel. Unlike aluminum, stainless steel isn’t a pure metal; it’s an alloy. Stainless steel is an iron alloy with a chromium content of at least 11% chromium. It may contain other elements, such as carbon, but stainless steel consists primarily of iron and chromium.

Stainless steel piano hinges are resistant to corrosion as well. The chromium in stainless steel protects the iron from rusting and corroding. Stainless steel piano hinges, though, are typically stronger than those made of aluminum. The only real disadvantage to choosing stainless steel piano hinges is the cost. They may cost more than aluminum piano hinges.

Cold-Rolled Steel

There are also cold-rolled steel aluminum hinges. Cold-rolled steel is characterized by its production process. It’s produced using a cold rolling method.

Steel can be classified as hot rolled or cold rolled, depending on how it’s made. Hot-rolled steel involves pressing heated steel between a series of rollers. Cold-rolled steel involves the same hot rolling process but with an added step. After the heated steel has been pressed, it’s further processed at room temperature.

Cold-rolled steel is stronger than hot-rolled steel. It undergoes a strength-hardening process. If you’re looking for an ultra-strong piano hinge, you may want to choose cold-rolled steel.

Some of the most common materials in which piano hinges are made include aluminum, stainless steel and cold-rolled steel. Before buying a piano hinge, you should familiarize yourself with the benefits of each material. Only then will you be able to choose a piano hinge in the right material for your application.

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