Material Specifications
ALUMINUM BARS , CHIMES , AND RESONATORS
All aluminum used on Freenotes instruments is custom extruded here in the USA . We use aluminum on areas of the instrument where capturing the tone is key . The aluminum is also anodized with an acid etched finish . While paints and plating sit on top of the surface of the aluminum , anodizing converts the outer layer of aluminum to aluminum oxide , so the coating is fully integrated with the aluminum substrate . Therefore , anodizing doesn ’ t chip or flake like paint – it is completely integral with the underlying metal .
FIBERGLASS BARS
To meet the long-lasting expectations of every one of our instruments we use reinforced fiberglass in lieu of wood on our xylophones . Our fiberglass bars are composed of a vinylester resin mix that contains a UV inhibitor additive , a synthetic surfacing veil , and a 60 % glass content , consisting of continuous filament mat and roving . These fiberglass bars provide a higher corrosion resistance for a longer life of play . Unlike wooden bars , our fiberglass bars will not rot or attract insects .
PLASTIC ( HDPE ) COMPONENTS
Many of Freenotes instruments are constructed and built around HDPE ( High-density polyethylene ) frames . Our HDPE components are easily cleaned , graffiti resistant , scratch resistant , and will never swell or rot . They are also UV stabilized , so there is no need to ever paint after years of installation .
STRUCTURAL RECYCLED PLASTIC LUMBER
Recycled Posts are available as an option on many Freenotes Harmony Park instruments . Unlike wood , these posts will not splinter , rot , or degrade and are lowmaintenance . This environmentally-friendly product is manufactured using recycled high-density polyethylene ( HDPE ) material that can also be recycled , and requires no painting or staining .
STAINLESS STEEL FASTENERS AND COMPONENTS
All fasteners used on our instruments are made of stainless steel . Stainless steel offers high strength and corrosion resistance properties , as well as a long-lasting flawless finish . You will also find stainless steel is used on our holsters that mount many of our instruments to their posts . This provides a rigid platform for a long-lasting installation . Both our lacing and mallet cables use internally woven stainless steel wires giving the flexibility needed for free movement playing experience as well as enhanced durability .
POWDER COATED STEEL COMPONENTS
All Freenotes Harmony Parks steel posts and frames include a 3-step powder coat finish , which eliminates worry of corrosion and fading even in the harshest of environments .
FINAL STEP : Application of 3 mls of super durable TGIC Powder Coat
STEP 2 : Application of 3 mls of Zinc-rich primer TGIC Epoxy Powder Coat
STEP 1 : Sand blasted to nearly white finish to remove any imperfections
Original Raw Steel
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