Hello flauters!
I’ve recently purchased 2 Delrin flutes and noticed
that they both get stuffy in the headjoint after playing for a while (moisture build-up). I never had this happen on my Boehm flutes. The moisture just drips out of the end of the flute on the Boehms.
Has anyone here tried to use a surfactant like Duponol or dishwashing liquid in the bore of a Delrin flute to reduce clogging?
Please let me know if this is a good idea or not.
Thank you!
Aldon
Have no idea about that stuff, however I do play delrin flutes without these difficulties.
There are some standard things to do. First, swab the flute more often. The Flute Flag, if
you can afford it, enables you to swab the whole flute in one swipe. Second, holding the
flute, I close the holes and blow hard on the embouchure hole, which helps clear the flute
of moisture. Third, while not playing, I hold the flute vertically, head up, or put vertically
in a corner or wherever and let it drain. I wouldn’t reach for anything exotic yet, FWIW.
I haven’t experienced the problem, to my knowledge.
Desi Seery used to suggest oiling the bore of his Delrin flutes to facilitate playing.
Thanks for the responses.
I just bought a flute flag online.
It did make me wonder if they were somehow dirty inside. The flute flag will help you if that is the case. Conical bore flutes should drip like boehm flutes. You could also try changing your hold to a slight downward angle, rather than the parallel to the floor classical posture. It may or may not help. It does not need to be extreme. The conical flute may not be as efficient in draining as it’s cylindrical brethern.
Sorry for the slow response, I’ve been a bit busy over here!
I can’t see any reason not to try a surfactant or detergent - it’s certainly not going to bother the delrin. Using warmer water will help the compound emulsify any oils or plasticiser that might be contaminating the bore. Don’t use a bleach - I understand delrin doesn’t like chlorine.
I’ll be interested to see if you can see an improvement.