Post date: Sep 23, 2015 4:52:42 PM
When an object is struck a vibration is made, this vibration is what causes sound. When two objects touch the vibrations travel though the nearest transferable median. This scientific fact is crucial for the amplification and distribution of sounds when it comes to bells. In essence if a bell is on the ground, and is struck, the sound goes into the floor and is dissipated quickly do to the large amounts of energy needed to travel through a solid. However when hoisted into the air the sound is able to be heard at much greater distances due to the density of air being much lower. The sound waves can pass much more quickly through the air allowing for less energy loss. For this reason all bells that serve practical function need to be as free from contact with external structures as possible. The two methods for securing bells are with what is know as an H frame and an A frame. H frames are cross beams in the shape of an H that attach the bell to the ceiling and outer walls. A frames are rigging that form the shape of an A and attach the bell to the ground. Both support the bells well as they hang.
Anther key factor in the vibrations of the bell is how they are struck. The first method often portrayed in movies is the swinging method. Usually a rope is tugged on the ground that causes the entire bell structure to swing back and forth. Inside the bell a clapper strikes the sides causing the vibrations. Over time this can lead to damage to the structure holding the bell, in addition leaving a streak mark formed by the clapper if the bell is not balanced. The other method is striking the shell of the bell. This causes less structural damage, however, over time can leave dents which can ultimately deform the bell and alter its sound.