The spelling of "piano hinge" originates from its function as a type of hinge often used in piano lids. The word is pronounced /piˈænoʊ hɪndʒ/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable "pi-" is pronounced like the musical instrument, "a-," represents a schwa sound, and "-no" is pronounced with a long "o" sound. The second half, "-hinge," is pronounced with a short "i" sound and a soft "g." This hinge is often used in furniture making as well as musical instruments.
A piano hinge is a type of continuous hinge that is characterized by its long and narrow design, featuring interlocking metal plates or knuckles along its length. Also known as a continuous hinge or hinge tape, a piano hinge consists of two parallel rows of cylindrical knuckles that are connected by a series of metal pins. This design allows the hinge to extend the entire length of a door or lid, providing strong and consistent support.
Piano hinges are commonly used in various applications, including cabinetry, furniture manufacturing, and musical instruments such as pianos. They are particularly well-suited for applications where a continuous, even distribution of weight and stress is required, as the elongated design provides stability and durability.
Due to their versatile nature, piano hinges are available in different sizes, materials, and finishes to accommodate specific requirements and aesthetics. They can be made from various materials such as stainless steel, brass, or nickel, offering corrosion resistance and enhancing their durability. Piano hinges can also be found with different thicknesses and hole patterns to ensure proper installation and functionality.
In summary, a piano hinge is a type of continuous hinge that is characterized by its long and narrow design, featuring interlocking metal plates or knuckles along its length. It is recognized for its durability, stability, and ability to distribute weight evenly, making it a popular choice in a wide range of industrial and residential applications.
The word "piano hinge" originates from the resemblance of the hinge's design to the keys of a piano. The term "piano" refers to the musical instrument, and a "hinge" is a jointed or flexible device that connects two objects, allowing for movement. The name was likely given to this type of hinge due to its similarity to the long, slender, and repetitive keys of a piano, which are connected and enable the instrument's lid to open and close smoothly.