Water Soluble Bending Matrix Information

Bending with the Water Soluble Bending Matrix


Using the bending matrix is as simple as mixing the powder with water, pouring it into an annealed tube, and freezing for more than 8 hours. We have tried many different ratios of powder to water and have decided it is up to the user to choose. Typically the recommended viscosity is similar to melted ice cream. 


When mixing the powder for the first time let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes after initially adding water. After this time the matrix should have soaked up all the water leaving a thicker mixture. Add more water and you are ready to go. 


The bending matrix will work when mixed with any amount of water. The usual starting point we recommend is to add enough water to get the mixture to the thickness of cake batter. For smaller diameter tubes we mix it thinner, and larger tubes are mixed thicker. This is just for ease of filling tubes. 


The liquid bending matrix will turn purple when activated with water. We add dye to ensure that the compounds in the premade mix are mixed evenly ensuring a consistent use. 


It is important to note that a good bend is more than what you fill the tube with. Proper annealing processes and bending fixtures are paramount to a successful bend. As always I am happy to advise anyone who is less experienced in bending tubing on where and how to start. 


This mix does not require a low temperature freezer. A household freezer is sufficient though it is recommended to get the freezer on the lowest temperature setting and to be careful not to over crowd the freezer. 


We welcome any feedback and are happy to answer any questions about the use and applications of our product.


Thank you for your support,

Miles O’Malley 

O’Malley Brass Instruments

orders@omalleyhorns.com

Miles O'Malley

Owner, Instrument Maker

Owner and founder of the company, Miles started to learn repair and manufacture of brass instruments when he was a teen using limited resources. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to assemble a diverse collection of tooling and learned the necessary skills to tackle any task. If you can pull him away from his machines long enough, Miles also loves a good round of billiards. Miles currently holds an Olive Garden breadstick eating record of 13. ** and Half a dish of chicken alfredo, (6 breadsticks equivalent)**

Adam Bender

Bell Maker, Engraving Specialist

A jack of all trades, Adam has been with the company since 2018. Adam specializes in everything Miles will give him, having a hand in every stage of the bell making process. All custom engravings are done by his hand. Outside of work, you can find him building Legos or playing with his precious cat, Deku.

Dave Paul, covered in buffing compound, holding pan of freshly buffed brass parts

Dave Paul

Assembly/Repair Specialist

An integral part of O'Malley Brass, Dave lends his expertise in all repairs brought to us. Whether running machines, assembling instruments, or drawing tubes, you can count on consistent and high quality work. He has gone above and beyond to show his value. Aside from the Company, Dave is an outdoorsman - ask him for his favorite biking trails.

Kyle Lambert

Front of House, Instrument Maker

The newest member of the O'Malley Brass family, Kyle takes care of the front of house duties/anything else that needs doing. If you call or email the shop, then you will likely speak with him! Kyle is a former employee of Austin Custom Brass, and attended Berklee College of Music. He is a trumpet player, and owns his own custom trumpet company as well.

Javier Bautista

Buffer/Finisher

We are very thankful to have Javier, as he has a notoriously thankless and difficult job! Buffing is an artform, and he has it down! Javier also plays traditional Mexican music on the violin when he is not working down in the buffing room.

We are happy to help with any questions or concerns! We are always looking for feedback on any improvements we can make. Please reach out today for suggestions or custom requests.

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