Not everything you read or hear about piano hinges is correct. Piano hinges are mechanical bearings, just like all hinges. They serve the purpose of joining two things together while also permitting a little amount of rotational movement between them. But compared to other hinges, piano hinges are longer. The following piano hinge myths should be familiar to you if you’re considering purchasing one.
#1) Reserved for pianos only
Piano hinges are not exclusive to pianos, despite what their name might lead you to believe. The piano hinge, which joins the lid to the piano’s base, is present in the majority of pianos. However, piano hinges are also applied to various kinds of objects. They are on a variety of items, including doors, chests, cabinets, toolboxes, medical equipment, and automobiles.
#2) Not the Same as Continuous Hinges
Contrary to popular belief, piano hinges and continuous hinges are not the same thing. Both “piano hinge” and “continuous hinge” describe hinges that extend the full length, or almost all of the length, of the objects they are employed on. Because they were intended to be used with pianos, they were originally referred to as “piano hinges.” However, as further uses for them developed, they also acquired the name “continuous hinges.”
#3) Unsuitable for High Weights
Heavy loads are a perfect fit for piano hinges. Compared to conventional, shorter hinges, these long, full-length mechanical bearings usually withstand larger loads. This is so that the weight of the burden is distributed among the items they are employed with. A piano hinge is the best option for applications involving large weights and significant stress.
#4) Steel is the only material available
The idea that piano hinges are only made of steel is another widespread misconception regarding them. Of course, steel piano hinges are available. Two of the most popular materials used to make them are carbon steel and stainless steel. However, there are alternative materials, such aluminum, that can be used for piano hinges. Compared to steel piano hinges, aluminum piano hinges are lighter and more corrosion-resistant.
#5) Exclusively offered with holes
While the majority of piano hinges have holes in them, some have solid leaves instead of holes. Needless to say, fasteners are inserted into holes. A series of screws can be inserted into the holes of a piano hinge and into the object underneath. If a piano hinge is hole less, it will probably accept an alternative installation technique like welding.
