Klarinet Archive - Posting 000826.txt from 1999/09

From: reedman@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Mouthpiece measuring equipment
Date: Fri, 24 Sep 1999 23:19:08 -0400

Hi Anne,

For those who want to know more about measuring mouthpieces I suggest
finding a copy of Eric Brand's "Band Instrument Repair Manual". I believe
that J.L Smith carries them. 1-800-659-6073.

There is a very basic explanation of the process of refacing in the
book. Eric Brand did write another pamphlet (Published by Selmer) about
mouthpiece refacing, but it is long out of print. (I can't even find a
copy!)

Morgan did at one time sell a basic refacing kit, but I am not
certain that he still does.

One can also contact J.J. Babbitt co (219) 293-6514 for these tools:

1.Curved tip gauge (graduated in mm/100) about $75 when I bought
mine.

2.Glass gauge (graduated in half mm) about $15

You will also need a set of feeler guages. The standard gauges are:

.034
.024
.010
.0015

I use 16 gauges to measure the curve, but this is over kill for
anyone just interested in basics. One can buy a set of feeler gauges at any
good auto parts store for about $6.

Remember that all curved tip gauges measure slightly differently. It
would be a good idea to check a new guage from Babbit with an accurate
verneer caliper. If your caliper is graduated in .001" the 100 mark on the
tip gauge should be pretty close to .0395 on the verneer caliper.

The glass gauge is graduated in half mm so every 2 marks indicate one
mm of length. A very standard length for American style facings is 34 which
translates into 17mm. This is the number that is read with the .0015 feeler
gauge. When measuring curves the top most mark on the glass gauge should
line up with the outside edge of the tip rail when the gauge is placed on
the table.

Here is a very standard curve:

.034 = 6
.024 = 12
.010 = 22
.0015 = 34

A standard tip opening for this curve (based on Everett Matsen's
gauge) is 102. This was the Harold Wright facing.

Good Luck!

Clark W Fobes

Clark W Fobes
130 Beverly St
San Francisco, CA 94132

(415) 585-0636 Tel/Fax

Website: clarkwfobes.com
e-mail: reedman@-----.com

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