30 INCH BAROQUE TIMPANI TOP LOADING FLIGHT CASE

Designed for 30 Inch Baroque Style Timpani

This flight case is purpose built for transporting a 30-inch Baroque style timpani, an instrument commonly used in historically informed performances and early music orchestras. These timpani are designed to replicate 18th-century sound characteristics and are often constructed with hand-hammered copper bowls, calfskin or specialised synthetic heads, and raw steel counter hoops. Their size and traditional build make them particularly sensitive to movement, impact, and uneven support during transport.

The internal layout of this case is designed to hold one 30-inch timpani securely in a vertical position. The instrument is lowered into the case from the top, allowing its weight to be distributed evenly through the bowl and supported by foam padding. This vertical loading approach reduces lateral stress on the shell and helps maintain tuning stability. While the case is tailored specifically for 30-inch Baroque timpani, other timpani with similar profiles may fit with minor internal adjustments.

The overall external dimensions of the case are 110.1 cm (L) × 107.9 cm (W) × 74.8 cm (H), providing sufficient internal clearance for the instrument while remaining practical for transport, storage, and truck loading.

Durable Materials and Consistent Manufacturing Standards

The case is constructed using 12 mm Weather and Boil Proof birch veneer laminated plywood. WBP plywood is made from thin layers of premium hardwood bonded with phenolic resin glue, offering strong resistance to moisture and weather-related changes. This material choice allows the case to perform reliably over many years, even when exposed to temperature and humidity fluctuations during touring and storage.

All panels are precision cut using CNC machinery to ensure consistent fit and alignment across each build. Assembly is carried out by trained technicians using Armor-selected hardware, with close attention paid to hinge alignment, lid operation, and overall structural integrity. A standard quality control process is followed throughout production to ensure each case meets durability and performance expectations without unnecessary variation between units.

Functional Features Focused on Vertical Loading and Storage Efficiency

The defining feature of this flight case is its top-hinged lid design. The lid opens fully upward, allowing the timpani to be loaded vertically, much like a washing machine. This controlled loading method reduces the risk of accidental contact with the bowl or hoop during handling.

Foam padding inside the case supports the bowl and top contact areas, helping absorb vibration and protect the instrument during transport. This is especially important for larger Baroque timpani, where stability plays a key role in preserving both sound quality and structural integrity.

The case is fitted with heavy-duty Armor hardware, including locking caster wheels on the front to improve stability during loading and storage. A lid handle assists with safe opening and closing, while castor dish divots on the lid allow cases to be stacked securely. This stacking design enables smaller cases to sit safely on larger ones, improving space efficiency in trucks and storage areas.

With a net weight of 85.79 kg (case only), this flight case prioritises protection, durability, and long-term usability. It is well suited to orchestras, period instrument ensembles, and venues that require a dependable transport solution for large Baroque timpani used in professional performance and recording environments.