STRING PLANE STIFFNESS {1997}
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT and Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo
When you try a racquet that you're not accustomed to, there are several factors that make it feel different. One factor many people don't fully understand is String Plane Stiffness. Tension is just one part of the equation. I have some folks buy a new racquet and want it strung at the same tension as their old one, because it was comfortable to them. What I explain to them is that a larger head will make the string bed feel looser, because the strings are longer and therefore more elastic.
Different racquets have different shapes and configurations that also influence the feel and playability of the string bed. A very important part of the equation is the number of strings the racquet has. Depending on the manufacturer, even a midsize frame will have between 14 and 18 main strings that make a tremendous difference. The number of cross strings also varies, adding to the real tension you experience. The actual stiffness of the string plane is measured by multiplying the number of strings by the amount of tension set on the stringing machine. An average frame with a 16X20 string pattern at 60 lb. has to handle a load of 2160 lb. (16+20=36x60). If we distribute the load over different size frames the effect of the larger head sizes becomes a lot clearer. A midplus frame of 95 Square Inches would have a load of 22.74 Pounds per Square Inch (psi). Similarly, a 110 square inch oversize frame and a 135 square inch super-oversize frame would have loads of 19.64 psi and 16 psi respectively. Remember that these calculations are for demonstration purposes only. Many larger frames have more strings than a similar smaller one, although that isn't always the case. (Gets confusing doesn't it?)
Why make it so complex? It goes back to the old saying, "Different strokes for different folks" (no pun intended). Those who break strings often will probably want a denser string pattern so the ball impact will be spread over more strings. Those who want more spin will want more space between strings so the ball will imbed itself deeper.
The bottom line is to remember, when you change racquets, you may have to experiment with string tension to get the results you want.
Copyright 1997 Previously published in TOTALLY TENNIS -- June 1997
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT
(Vince's Racquet Tech 101)
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Editor's note pertaining to all articles presented.
All articles are presented as they were written and published. Some information contained in these articles may have changed over the years. Please be cognizant of this as you read. Additionally, since these articles go back as far as 1994, some of the technology may have changed, and new methods and advancements may have come about. Please contact us if you have any questions.
