Once the blade has been correctly graded and machined, the next stage is the pressing. The willow fibres have to be compressed in order to strengthen the timber sufficiently to withstand the impact of a cricket ball. But as pressing is a delicate balance between hardening the willow for strength and leaving the blade soft enough to play well (over-pressing can deaden the blade),
Salix presses each blade individually. |
Generally, we press the blade up to 4 times at up to 2,000lb per square inch. Again, inherent understanding of the wood is essential to determine the right amount of pressure. Our presses have both been custom built and are unique to Salix. Within the press itself, we then adapt and adjust according to the various models within the range. |
