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  6: The bellows of the musical mechanism


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View of the bellows with the body of the organ dismounted
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The bellows of the Mechanical Orchestra (model)
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The bellows are one of the important elements in the construction of the Mechanical Orchestra. They are air chambers made of wood and leather that function in a similar way to an air-pump. When the bellows close air is driven out of them into a special reservoir (the windchest) from where it is delivered to the pipes making them sound. When the bellows are expanded they take in air through a special valve. The Mechanical Orchestra has several bellows that work alternately. This ensures an uninterrupted supply of air, enabling the organ pipes to work evenly when playing.

 

 

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