Piano Wire - 1.2mm

Piano Wire is a high-carbon spring steel wire ($\text{C}85$), cold-drawn, which offers an excellent combination of rigidity and elastic flexibility. With a diameter of 1.2 mm, it is designed to resist permanent deformation and return to its original shape even after significant stress. This material is a fundamental element for professionals requiring a non-deformable armature or reinforcement. It is a hard steel wire.

Usage tips

• Professional Millinery: The 2 mm wire is ideal for structuring and stiffening the edges of caps, large hat wings and capelines subjected to strong stress. It ensures an impeccable hold of the shape. It is generally held to the hat with a zigzag stitch or a brass stitch.

• Shaping: To insert the wire into a hem or a casing, it is advisable to pre-curve the piano wire with suitable pliers (good quality cutting pliers or round-nose pliers) to avoid excessive tension on the fabric or leather during placement.

• Joining: The ends are traditionally joined by welding (with a welder suitable for $\text{C}85$ carbon steels) or, for a heatless method, by using crimp ferrules. It is also possible to hold the junction with a stitching, by overlapping the piano wire over a few centimetres (about 5 cm).

• Other Applications: Its strength makes it essential in model-making for aircraft model control rods, in wrought ironwork, and in the manufacture of custom springs for precision mechanics. It is also used in haute couture to structure certain garment designs. Piano wire can also be used as an armature for bags, in leatherwork.

• Do not use for lifting and traction

Additional Information

• Storage: Piano wire is sensitive to oxidation. It must be stored in a dry environment, away from humidity. The application of a light protective film (mineral or anti-rust oil) is recommended for long-term storage.

• Protection: The use of protective glasses is mandatory when cutting, due to the tension of the wire which can cause dangerous projections.

• Recycling: This material is fully recyclable as special steel.

Technical Characteristics

• Diameter: 1.2 mm (Professional tolerance H9)

• Composition: Carbon spring steel ($\text{C}85$)

• Tensile strength ($\text{Rm}$): Very high (typically between $1700$ and 2000 N/mm2 for this steel)

• Finish: Raw, untreated

Care instructions

The product does not require maintenance once integrated into a creation. If the product is used outdoors or in a humid environment, it must be protected by a coating (varnish, plastic or fabric sheath) to prevent corrosion.

Additional Note

The photographs presented on this product sheet are not contractual. This product is sold by the reel of 8.5 metres. Do not use for lifting and traction. If you would like larger quantities, contact us by e-mail at contact@mercerie-atelier.fr