The world-renowned scientist Dr. Anthony Achong has confirmed that the design features that make up the overall impression of the “Hang” are primarily aesthetic and in no way functional. Dr. Achong is author of the book:
“Secrets of the Steelpan – Unlocking the Secrets of the Science, Technology, Tuning and Operation of the Steelpan”
The retired professor of physics at the University of the West Indies has spent a lifetime with the sounding sheet metal. He is regarded as one of the leading experts.
You can download his report here in the original and in a certified translation into German.