Iron PlateStations of the Steinway

The cast-iron plate is the one component in a Steinway grand piano that does not resonate — and that is precisely its purpose. Produced by the Kelly Foundry in Springfield, Ohio, using a traditional sand-moulding process, the plate stabilizes the entire structure of the instrument and absorbs the immense tension of the strings.

The high carbon content of the grey cast iron prevents the strings from losing vibration energy to the plate itself, ensuring every note rings with full clarity. After casting, Steinway craftsmen work the plate with drill and milling machine, then sand and bronze it by hand — before painting the Steinway & Sons lettering by hand as a final flourish.