Tech Talk: The Belt and Pulley Line Shaft System with Machinist and Artist Todd Cahill

Artist/machinist Todd Cahill sheds light on the belt and pulley line shaft systems that drove machine tools from the early 19th century onward until that method of distributing power in factories and workshops was gradually supplanted by electric motors.

This Tech Talk opens with a look at the line shaft system Todd installed and operates in his own studio — fulfilling an ambition from his college years — followed by a brief look at the line shaft system and the antique tools it drives in the Museum's own machine shop.

Todd has also achieved excellence as a steam engine builder and model maker. This talk also includes a look at a working model of a grist mill he made more than a decade ago but that also made use of belt and pulley line shaft equipment.

This is a great opportunity to gain insight into this essential technology from the Industrial Revolution from a passionate, skilled contemporary machinist.

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