Author: mschmidt
Date: 2007-06-30 03:39
The frequent moist/dry cycling of the oboe is probably one of the biggest issues leading to cracks; I wouldn't be surprised if it's more important than the inside wet/outside dry issue. A string instrument might gradually change its dryness over the course of days as the weather changes, while an oboe experiences cycles of 100% humidity/ambient humidity every day.
I think another important difference between oboes and stringed instruments is the thicknesses of the wood involved; thinner wood can flex in response to temperature and humidity changes, and the whole thickness will reach the same humidity quickly. Thick wood is always subject to more cracking. If you've ever seasoned firewood, you'll note that full logs almost always develop some radial cracks, but wood that is sawed into planks first is much less likely to crack as it dries.
The thinness issue applies mostly to the body of the stringed instrument, though; I would imagine the neck might be more subject to cracking. But if there is a small crack in the neck, the instrument will still be playable so long as the longitudinal strength of the wood is not compromised. Not so with an oboe, because it will leak!
Finally, the density and hardness of the wood used in oboes probably means that cracking is more important as a stress-relieving mechanism. A spongier wood such as spruce or maple can probably absorb more stress internally without cracking.
Mike
Still an Amateur, but not really middle-aged anymore
Post Edited (2007-06-30 03:45)
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