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String Breakage Failure Analysis

In the past I told customers to cut the strings in a racquet after a string breaks, to relieve stress on the frame. I even told them the proper method for cutting out the strings. However, not having the stringbed prevented me from examining the break to see if I could determine the cause. Now I tell customers to leave the things as they are if there is a suspicious break, so I can inspect the frame and strings. I then look for:

1. A worn or damaged grommet with a sharp edge.
2. One or more strings broken near the frame or grommet, indicating a “framed” shot.
3. Nicked or damaged string (which can occur before, during, or after stringing).
4. Defective string.
5. Worn or damaged bumperguard that allows string to contact the court while digging for a shot.

Gosen T-Shirt and 5 sets of Micro Super JC 16 to:

Dan McManus, Auburn, WA

From the June 2005 issue
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