Steam-powered machine shop

[Jon]

From David Richards on YouTube:

[C-Bag]

Thanks for posting that Jon!

It's remarkable how little pressure I takes to run the one device. For a one man shop that would definitely be a lot of work but shows how it was done before electricity. I will definitely subscribe.

[Toolmaker51]

Stunning. That twenty minutes went by too quickly. I'd be interested to know if he runs primarily commercial or self generated projects. Like C-Bag, I've got to get on the list for his postings. Is he an HMT'er? Should be. His humble manner about a first youtube video struck me, way better than many of the theatrical efforts we see there; perfect focus, depth of field and clear diction. And though unscripted, it's evident he is knowledgeable and comfortable with the subject, certainly had many 'guests' to polish that delivery. I want to see the mill run! What really lit me up was when the camera panned to the second lathe, the 16". Immediately said to myself "That's an American". Sure 'nuff! Gramp's to my 1954 Pacemaker!
The work ethic and no nonsense atmosphere is much like what 'the building' might capture sans steam. It shows me there are interested parties, that's a market. I won't care how small, so long as they're loyal more will follow.

[C-Bag]

Did it seem like he had always had this setup, or had he pieced it together?

I had read during WWI they went around and bought up and scrapped all the old steam equipment. Not only for metal for the war effort but also phase steam out to bring everything up to electricity and oil. I've always been very curious about steam and when I first was able to get on the net I couldn't find much about it. But as time has gone on there is more and more info with forums etc. it's really interesting to see it in action. While it does kinda scare me seeing all those belts flying around I guess it like anything else in a shop you have be aware and keep your wits about you.

Did you guys see the other thread about the Amish air powered work shop? I don't think it would work as the steam for like the lathe and mill. I didn't see how they were running the compressor. Was it steam too?

[PJs]

I was totally enthralled by this and subbed his channel...it'll be a fun binge watch. Like TM said his demeanor is what sets him and this stuff apart from the other mainstreamers. Wondering if it's actually a working museum of some kind? The pre 25' machines and boiler/engine and belt system were beautiful, well kept, amazing and seen pictures of that stuff before but never running~@!@~ A real treat! What lit my candle though was the boring bar forged by a blacksmith, who knows how long ago...Oh My!

C-Bag,,,heading that way now...

Thanks Jon for posting this!! ~PJ

[Paul Jones]

I have been watching David Richards' YouTube channel since he went live last year and have gained a lot of knowledge that is ageless no matter what era you are working in. David provides a wonderful explanation of the horsepower rating of stationary steam engines and the torque they produce. That small steam engine is pretty powerful. It is amazing when he has a couple of machines running and machining at the same time and having to be watched. You have to know what you are doing in this shop.

[jotasierra]

que espectaculo de taller "A VAPOR":cerveza:

[Jon]

Monotype factory floor, 1928.



Fullsize 1239x905 image: https://diqn32j8nouaz.cloudfront.net...r_fullsize.jpg

More:

https://www.grafik.net/category/feature/sole-trader
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monotype_Imaging

[Frank S]

Take special not of the young apprentices in the foreground

[Jon]

Good point. Mostly kids, and some teenagers.

I'm all for children working - just in small doses, and in safe conditions. I was a paperboy when I was a kid. I don't even know if those exist anymore.