Brunel's Other BridgeBrunel Swivel Bridge Project Photos may 2017
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Investigative Work in 2017
The main focus of our attention was the badly pitted wheel track which sits on top of the wheels.The wheel track is a heavy forging (about 14 ft diameter) probably made by rolling to a circle and fire-welding the joint.
It is an amazing example of heavy forge-work which should be preserved for future generations.
The problem is how to machine away the face, which is why a little experimentation is needed.
Bob found that following measurements today, he thought that he would put them on a record to compare with the original intended dimensions of the rail track.
The original Brunel drawings show a radius to the centreline of the rail track as 6ft 7.5in (79.5in). We are therefore very close when we average the N-S and E-W dimensions acquired on site today!
May 2017
The rail track under the turntable |
Bob and Geoff discussing tactics |
The grinder was heavy to hold above the head so Bob supported it with rope |
View from above |
This may be where the joining pin was |
Good crop of lambs plantain which had to go. |
loved the poppies which were prolific so kept them |
four new bearing-halves have been cast |
Delivering the wheel to Boro Foundry at Stourbridge. Not sure what Janet is thinking! |