Tuning pins are made of steel or other hard materials that can withstand the tension of the strings. The head of the tuning pin is usually knurled or slotted, so that it can be easily turned with a tuning hammer.
Tuning pins are an essential part of a piano, and they must be kept in good condition in order for the piano to stay in tune. If a tuning pin is loose, the string will not be properly tensioned and the note will sound out of tune. If a tuning pin is too tight, the string can break.
Piano technicians use tuning pins to tune pianos. This is a skilled process, and it requires a good ear for music and a lot of practice. Piano technicians must also be careful not to over-tighten the strings, as this can damage the piano.
Tuning pins are an important part of a piano, and they play a vital role in keeping the piano in tune.