CLAPPERS
Clapper is the key part of the bell, which allows the bell to function properly and ensures its characteristic noble sound. It is an elongated, heavy metal object with a bezel, usually made of wrought iron. It is movably fixed to the top of the bell's interior and strikes the inner striking point of the striking ring when it swings. Although it looks robust and durable, it is in fact a very delicate element that requires a great deal of know-how to work optimally.
Our expertise is based on an understanding of the laws of the operation of the clapper and on many years of experience gained from working in bell towers. In order to continuously develop and improve, we regularly check the laws on our test bell. Proper swing and clear sound depend on the model of the harpsichord, its length, weight distribution, suspension and the treatment and hardness of the material.
The bell is designed for centuries of operation, while the clapper takes on the role of a "consumable," as one of its purposes is to protect the precious bell from wear. Clappers forged from special soft steel represent the pinnacle of quality, as they produce pure tones from the bell and are also resistant to breaking.
Our company, KRN sistemi d.o.o., supplies flexible and classic forged clappers made from soft-forged iron for durability and long service life. We customize the clappers to the specific needs of your bell tower, including precise measurements and adjustments to weight and shape. In collaboration with a renowned blacksmith from Germany, we ensure precise custom-made production for optimal bell operation. Our workshop also manufactures hangers for classic clappers and forks with counterweights for flexible versions. This approach allows us to achieve high-quality standards while preserving the rich heritage of bell-making.
CLASSIC CLAPPER
The classic clapper is longer than the flexible one and has a pivot point high inside the bell. For optimal operation, it usually requires a larger bell swing angle and slightly more space in the bell tower.
There is a general belief that classic clappers produce a better sound than flexible clappers due to their greater mass and different force lines upon bell strike, but this depends on many factors such as the shape and mass of the clapper's ball and the length of the clapper's extension.
To achieve the characteristic Slovenian harmonious ringing, we are often compelled to install classic clappers with long extensions. This is essential for ensuring proper ringing but also has its consequences. Due to the specific force lines that arise in such a configuration, the sound may be somewhat more muted, especially in the upper spectrum of the bell's side tones.
In the following, you can watch a video of the ringing in the Parish Church of the Holy Cross in Marezige. This example clearly demonstrates the operation of classic clappers on all three bells. The video offers an opportunity to hear and see how classic clappers affect the sound and dynamics of ringing in practice.
COUNTERWEIGHT CLAPPER
Counterweight clappers are designed as a solution to the challenges encountered with classic clappers, particularly in the context of Slovenian harmonious ringing. Their unique feature is a special attachment where part of the clapper acts as a counterweight, allowing for more balanced operation and better control of the swing.
They are suitable for many circumstances, and with low swing angles, they are used only when space constraints require it. In such cases, their utility is demonstrated by ensuring more precise swinging and more uniform operation. They also allow achieving the desired sound without the need for long extensions. This extends the lifespan of the bell, reduces wear, and contributes to a cleaner and more harmonious sound. Counterweight clappers also enable easier adjustment and customization for optimal sound results.
The following video showcases the ringing in the Church of the Assumption of Mary in Lesno Brdo, where counterweight clappers are used. This example provides an opportunity to hear and observe the operation of counterweight clappers in practice. As you watch, pay attention to the features we mentioned: the precision of the swing, the uniformity of operation, and the sound quality