Browse this guide to learn more about the materials we carry and check out our Intro to Sheet Materials video to get a brief overview of all our offerings.
About Tech Cork
This very firm rubberized composite cork is made out of real cork that has been crumbled and then made into a sheet with a binder (i.e. glue).
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When to Use
Tech Cork has a good slip to it, so it works well on keys that slide against each other. It is excellent for using under adjustment screws.
When to Avoid Using
Since Tech Cork is a harder material, it will make more noise, meaning it is too loud to be used for keys that go straight up and down, and shouldn’t be used on parts of the instrument that touch the body.
About Opti-Kork / Solid Tan
Both Opti-Kork and Solid Tan are made of the same synthetic cork-like material (which we make our waterkey, sax neck and tenon corks from). The only difference between the products is their aesthetic look.
Opti-Kork
Opti-Kork is designed to have the appearance of natural cork, so it is speckled and if you cut the material, there might be holes that appear on the edges (just like with natural cork material).
Solid Tan
The appearance of Solid Tan cork is all one color and when you punch/cut the material it has a smooth cut to it.
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When to Use
Opti-Kork and Solid Tan are a bit softer and have a bit more give than Tech Cork (but they are still firm materials). Because this material is softer, it can be used anywhere on the flute and even where felt is used at times.
Adjustability
They also have the ability to be a bit adjustable in their thickness when heat is applied. For example, once the material has been compressed, if hot air is held next to (not on) the material, the heat allows the material to expand in size up to (but not past) the original specs.
Optional Adhesive Backing
This material is the only cork sheet that comes with an adhesive back option to it. The adhesive back is great for emergency and quick repairs, however, when working on professional instruments and full servicing, you would want to use contact adhesive, in addition to the adhesive backing, for longer lasting support.