Drummers Guide: Understanding the Impact of Fulcrum on Cymbal Mounting

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    Fulcrum General
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the impact of fulcrum mechanics on cymbal mounting, specifically regarding the length of the boom arm on a drum stand. Participants explore the implications of extending the boom arm on the joint's performance and durability, focusing on technical aspects of torque and wear on the equipment.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether extending the boom arm increases the load on the joint/fulcrum at the top of the stand.
  • Another participant clarifies that while the joint may encounter a greater turning moment (torque), it is not accurate to say it is "working harder" since no movement occurs at that point.
  • A participant suggests that keeping the boom arm short may reduce wear and tear on the joint.
  • Another response indicates that well-designed stands can handle the torque from full extension and the stresses of frequent adjustments, suggesting that concerns about wear may be overstated.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of extending the boom arm. While some agree that it increases torque, there is no consensus on the significance of this increase regarding wear and tear on the joint.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the extent to which different stand designs may influence the effects of torque and wear, nor does it clarify the specific conditions under which wear may become a concern.

karate718
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Hi,

I am a drummer and have a question in regards to mounting my cymbals. If you have a look at this picture to give a frame of reference: https://www.americandrumschool.com/store/images/boom%20stand%20BS-70D.jpg .

Thy cymbal mounts on the top where the black felts are. My question is, if I extend the length of the boom arm, does that make the joint/fulcrum at the top of the vertical part of the stand work harder?

Thank you.
 
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The joint (pivot) would certainly have a harder time of keeping the boom in place.

Strictly speaking, we wouldn't say it's "working harder"; no movement is taking place so no "work" is being done. More correctly, a bigger "turning moment" (or torque) is being encountered at the joint.
 
Got it. Thank you. So by keeping the boom as short as possible I am decreasing the wear and tear on the the joint.
 
karate718 said:
Got it. Thank you. So by keeping the boom as short as possible I am decreasing the wear and tear on the the joint.

Theoretically, yes. However, if you've bought reasonably decent stands, then they'll have been designed to withstand the torque encountered at full extension, and to withstand the repeated adjustments and disassembly/reassembly caused by heavy gigging.

I really wouldn't worry about it.
 

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