Since 1991, Bodet Campanaire has welded more than 1,500 bells. With know-how unique in France and a restoration process by welding, Bodet Campanaire is devoted to safeguarding your architectural heritage. Together, let’s preserve the history and authenticity of your bells.
The process involves welding with refill. Chipped, cracked and damaged areas are restored by adding material.
Our patented process for restoring ancient bells preserves the existing bell and gives it a second life. The ring of the bell is restored so that it is identical to the original. Welding the bell avoids the need for recasting and preserves the function and aesthetic of old or listed bells.
Red dye penetrant inspection shows up the cracks.
The crack is uncovered by milling.
The bell is brought up to temperature in a kiln.
The crack is filled in by welding.
If necessary, the ornaments are restored.
The bell is gently brushed to bring up the patina.
Restoring a bell brings back its original ring. A cast bell usually emits 5 tuned notes when rung: the hum, the strike, the tierce, the quint and the nominal.
Before / After each restoration, a survey of the bell’s notes is carried out to ensure correct tuning.
Bodet Campanaire offers a suitable musical repertoire depending on the number of bells and each of their notes.
Our bell technicians have great experience in various bell removal techniques.
We determine the extent of the damage and the degree of wear on the bell.
The bell is restored using an exclusive patented welding process.
Our bell technicians are expert in replacing the bells in your buildings.
Our technicians are available to maintain and inspect your bells.
How does a bell wear?
- cumulative effect of years of ringing, wearing out the striking points.
- casting defects and cracking of the core leading to splitting of the crown.
- improperly tightened stays wearing out the canons.
- ringing mechanisms resulting in too much amplitude and weakening the structure.
- hard steel clapper worn out or incorrectly sized, causing cracks.
Bodet Campanaire guarantees a successful restoration. Our welders work on bells of all sizes every day. To date, Bodet Campanaire has performed more than 1,500 welds on bells.
To promote this rare and exceptional event in the history of your town or village, we offer various activities and solutions for sharing this event with the residents.
Bodet Campanaire at your side: before, during and after the event.