What's a clock chime rod made from?

[gregl]

I note on the net complaints that the rods will break during a move if not supported, which suggests to me that they are hardened (and therefore brittle). Other than that, what would a clock chime rod be made from? What type of steel? Or not steel? Would it be just a straight rod or would it have a taper?

Just wondering if I could make one for an upcoming project.

Thanks.

[winchman]

It's been forty+ years, but I seem to remember it was very hard steel that needed to be cut with a Dremel-type abrasive cutoff wheel.

[Weston Bye]

Chimes? Use music wire...

No kidding. ASTM A228. Usually used for making springs. Be careful how you work or apply it though, as it begins to anneal above 250°F.

Chimes can be straight or curled, depending on the space available in the clock case. Curling may also change the tone or timbre.

[sch]

Ditto Mr. Bye, the chimes in my school clock from Emperor in the 70's
were music wire, worked well (German works/chimes). Fairly large gauge,
above 0.060" IIRC and clamped at one end in a casting. Also the wind
chimes sold everywhere by crafty types are electrical EMT tubing, easy
to tune by length and diameter. Easily painted.

[gregl]

Thank you, Mr. Bye. Of course.... why else would it be called thus? Off to experiment!