In medieval times, a planishing hammer was used to help form suits of armor.
A planishing hammer is used to shape and smooth sheet metal. The operator places a piece of metal between the head of the hammer and a hard surface known commonly as a planishing stake or anvil. Repeated blows of the hammer on the metal flatten and bend the metal to its desired shape and smoothness.
History
Planishing was used to help craft medieval suits of armor. Each plate was subject to thousands of hammer strokes by a craftsman.
Types
There are a variety of types of planishing hammers, including handheld models, foot-powered models and units that are powered by air. Some of the heads are equipped with rawhide or hardwood to lessen the potential damage to the metal as it is being worked. However, these kinds of handheld models are often not suitable for larger jobs. Pneumatic, or air-powered, planishing hammers offer the user a tool that strikes the metal at a rate sometimes exceeding 100 blows per minute. Depending on the type, planishing hammers range in price from $99 to over $800.
Techniques
Whether using an air-powered planishing hammer or a handheld model, a number of soft blows will result in a smoother finish. Singular hard blows can result in the metal becoming bent or dimpled.
Metals
Along with sheet metal, planishing hammers are used to form and smooth aluminum, brass and copper.
Modern Uses
Automobile repair shops use planishing hammers to take dents out of vehicles and to create parts that are made out of larger pieces of metal. Planishing also is used on airplane parts and by modern-day artists who recreate suits of armor.
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