I'm guessing there was perhaps some AI "bullshit" in that article you shared. And masking for asbestos requires more than paper masks, or even N-95 masks…..it requires the respirator type used in spray rooms for VOC's found in those chemicals. HEPA filter in your vacuum is also necessary.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10676-024-09775-5
Without doing a deep dive into credible research journals on the subject, I would not doubt that someone, somewhere proposed the idea of using asbestos in pianos. Whether or not is was put into practice in piano making is another issue.
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John Minor
The Piano Shop Inc
Champaign IL
thepianoshopcu@gmail.comwww.thepianoshopcu.com------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 06-17-2025 01:35
From: Wim Blees
Subject: Asbestos in Hammers
John
When they say "use in heat resistance and soundproofing", I don't think they meant in piano work. All this is saying that asbestos was used in piano work, including in the hammers.
I was not aware of this and shaped many a sets of hammers made before 1970 without a mask. But I'm still alive and kicking at age 80. That's not to say we should not wear a mask when shaping hammers, but I think the danger is over blown. And it certainly would not be dangerous for customers playing a piano.
Wim
Original Message:
Sent: 6/17/2025 1:15:00 AM
From: John Minor
Subject: RE: Asbestos in Hammers
"Historical Use:
Asbestos was once widely used for its heat resistance and soundproofing properties, including in piano manufacturing."
OK, someone explain to me what SOUNDPROOFING is needed in pianos???? And HEAT RESISTANCE??? Let's be critical thinkers here….OK?
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John Minor
The Piano Shop Inc
Champaign IL
thepianoshopcu@gmail.com
www.thepianoshopcu.com
Original Message:
Sent: 06-16-2025 22:01
From: Wim Blees
Subject: Asbestos in Hammers
I did a Google Search in Asbestos in piano hammers. It appears it's a minor issue, and I would recommend you wear a dust mask to prevent keep the dust out of your nose.
Yes, it's possible that older piano hammers may contain asbestos, particularly in pianos manufactured before the 1970s. While modern piano hammers use wool felt, older models sometimes incorporated asbestos in the hammer felt or other parts of the piano action. If the piano is old and undergoing restoration, it's wise to be aware of the potential for asbestos and take appropriate precautions. Here's a more detailed explanation:
Historical Use:
Asbestos was once widely used for its heat resistance and soundproofing properties, including in piano manufacturing. Potential Locations:
Asbestos might be found in the hammer felt itself, in other padding materials, or even in the insulation of the damp chaser system. Risk Assessment:
If the piano is in good condition and the asbestos is contained within the instrument, the risk of exposure is generally considered low. However, during restoration or repair, when materials are disturbed, there's a greater chance of asbestos fibers becoming airborne. Precautions:
If you suspect asbestos in your piano, it's recommended to consult with a professional specializing in piano restoration or asbestos abatement. Testing:
You can purchase asbestos test kits from hardware or paint stores to check for the presence of asbestos. Modern Hammers:
Modern piano hammers are typically made of wood with layers of compressed wool felt.
Original Message:
Sent: 6/16/2025 8:53:00 PM
From: Scott Kerns
Subject: Asbestos in Hammers
Does anyone have information about asbestos being in the hammers of Acrosonic pianos? I have a customer who is concerned about that. I'm not sure of the age of the piano. It is older, she thought 100 years old. Did they make Acrosonics in 1925? After doing a Google search I found out that apparently it is a thing, but the only way to know for sure is to have a hammer analyzed.
Thanks for your help!
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"That Tuning Guy"
Scott Kerns
Lincoln, Nebraska
www.thattuningguy.com
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