Monday, July 29, 2024

Treadle metal lathe

This device was on display at Brooklands. The idea of using a foot powered lathe to cut metal doesn't seem practical but they were common before shops became electrified. The pedal mechanism is not a lot different than a treadle sewing machine, though the belt is a lot heavier of course. I also would have expected more of a flywheel-type pulley for more momentum to assist the operator.  Up top, that's a normal metal lathe with probably an 8 or 9" throw and a 3 and a half foot bed so capable of serious sized jobs. No manufacturer's name apparent. It looks like they've set up a shaft 2 feet long and 1 1/2" diameter as a demo piece. Someday I'd like to try one out.



 

1 comment:

JP said...

https://www.sellingantiques.co.uk/558804/american-treadle-lathe-1890