[Bell Historians] Clappers

[matthewhigby at 4QgESmSB6Vcxu3wE4VH7CGrpy0O1p6CIwTcsZ-rh0CSzwrmfU8GzJTvQ7DOJkaUxz6V2xMVpAf2t-ho.yahoo.invalid]

The flight has various functions. Briefly I will try and describe them! 

Firstly - have you ever played Cricket? Try hitting the ball with the top or bottom of the bat - the ball doesn't go too far and it hurts your wrists. If you hit it with the middle of the bat (optimum strike point) the ball goes a long way, without hurting. The same principal works with a clapper.

1) The flight reduces stress on the clapper pivot.
2) The flight balances the clapper, to give an optimum strike point (similar weight either side of the ball).
3) The flight makes the clapper into a longer pendulum, gives more wind resistance etc, to slow the clapper down. Clappers with short flights swing quicker, making the the bell harder to get up with the clapper "right side" (particularly when combined with a heavy headstock).

Hope this helps,

Matthew


What is the purpose of the flite (or is it flight) on a clapper? Does it have an aerodynamic function or is it a vestige of  former use as the point at which to attach a rope for chiming ?  
Peter Trent







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From: Peter Trent <peter.trent at Ev7jay_8qRpM-VGDDDN20zmxiHlScn1_eYkvptXicbBgY6OZJLnTJkR2TJlYLMdSBi2lo_N_I507IoSy6rW1mjg.yahoo.invalid>
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Subject: [Bell Historians] Clappers


 


What is the purpose of the flite (or is it flight) on a clapper? Does it have an aerodynamic function or is it a vestige of  former use as the point at which to attach a rope for chiming ?  
Peter Trent




           
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