Publications

3D Printed tangents

For many years, i've been making maple tangents fixed with m2.5 machine screws and they work very well.
Time passes and now 3D printing has progressed to the stage where a viable alternative can be made.
I dont like the "L" shaped metal tangents currently popular as they seem to create more problems than they solve - they do allow more chanters to fit in the keybox but are arguably a lot more fiddly to regulate and don't allow minute adjustment on the fly.

The method I use to make wooden tangents is explained in the Wren book and there is a video of the process in my build dvd.
On the whole, I'm happy with the wood tangents but there are minor inaccuracies that creep in which means they are sometimes not absolutely identical. As we know, it's essential that the tangents contact the strings at the same time so minor discrepencies need to be fixed.

These printed tangents are absolutely identical so assuming the holes in the keys are drilled and tapped accurately, all the tangents fit beautifully.

I fit a 2.5mm crinkle washer under the screw head which allows the correct amount of tightness .The ends of the tangents have a slightly granular texture due to the printing process and this helps to grip them in position.

they will work just fine as is but to lessen the "click" when hitting the strings, you can clad them with heat shrink tubing. Using simmering water as a heat source ensures the tangents don't distort. Alternatively, you can fit silicone tube over them so no heat is required.

The photo above shows the tangents with a background of 2mm square graph paper. They are 18mm and 10mm long.
The large blow up shows the textured end surface.

While I was instrumental in the design and development of the tangents, I am leaving the production and sales side to Josh Durham who is the genius engineer responsible for the final product.

Here is a link to my youtube demo of the tangents - https://youtu.be/WRzoZnPmJ6M

The tangents come in bags of 30 pieces with a price of £25 for a bag of each. For anyone wanting an extra chanter, 1/2 bag sets are £15. these prices do not include postage.

To get hold of them , please contact Josh ( josh@dureng.co.uk )