Re: [ARSCLIST] wire recordings - archival storage

["Scott D. Smith" <lists@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Tracy,

This is an area where not a lot of research has been done (at least that 
I've ever seen). However, based on my experience, I would at least 
recommend the following:

1. Do not store them in the original cardboard containers, as it invites 
issues with mold and moisture.

2. As much as possible, make sure there there is a _consistent_ wind on 
the pack, with no loose strands. (This is probably _the_ most important 
part for long-term storage).

3. A threaded leader should be attached, if there is none present. The 
end should be taped to the top of the spool with an archival, non-bleed 
tape (the 3M "zebra" tape is perfect for this).

4. As oxidation of the wire is always an issue, (especially with lower 
grade wire stock), it would be best to keep the spools in an airtight 
plastic container (a small 16mm plastic film canister might be an 
option). A desiccant pack would probably be a good idea as well, but 
would have to be changed periodically.

I don't really have an opinion one way or the other regarding tails out 
or heads out for storage. More than anything else, I think it is 
important to have a well functioning machine which can properly wind the 
spools at a constant tension.

Scott D. Smith
Chicago Audio Works, Inc.


Tracy Popp wrote:
> Dear ARSC list members:
>
> I have been doing research on archiving wire recordings for a project we are
> working on here at Univ. of Illinois. I have yet to find any  information
> about preferred archival storage of these types of recordings - storage
> orientation, preferred archival containers, etc. I have seen recommendations
> regarding storage environment temperature but nothing definitive on
> container or orientation.
>
>  I'd like to hear about how you and your institution approach archival
> storage of wire recordings and if you have any particular resource you've
> used to guide your decisions. Thank you in advance and I look forward to
> your responses!
>
> Best,
> Tracy Popp
> Graduate Student
> Univ. of Illinois
>
>