Maudslay Screw-Cutting Lathe - Model
Henry Maudslay (1771-1831) was an innovative English tool and die maker, inventor and machine-tool developer, now considered the founding father of machine-tool technology. As a pioneer in the development of the screw-cutting lathes and improved machine tools built wholly of metal, he was accustomed to making models to illustrate and develop his ideas, and this one was preserved within the company he founded.
It represents quite an advanced machine, specifically designed for making large screws. The screw being cut was turned directly by a labourer at the capstan wheel (the big one on the end at the right). The gears transmitted motion to a lead-screw that drew along the sliding saddle (the piece just right of centre) carrying the cutting tool. The machinist used the micrometer handwheel on the saddle to regulate the depth of the cut and to withdraw the tool as the machine was reversed, ready for another pass.
This model, from c1800, is made of iron, steel and brass, mounted on a wooden display base. It is about 1:8 scale compared with the original full-size lathe, which was probably 2-3m in length and built of iron.
The model was acquired by the Science Museum in 1900 and is one of a multitude of models covering a wide range of items of scientific interest currently displayed under glass on the Model Walkway (mezzanine above the ground floor).
Maudslay Screw-Cutting Lathe - Model
Henry Maudslay (1771-1831) was an innovative English tool and die maker, inventor and machine-tool developer, now considered the founding father of machine-tool technology. As a pioneer in the development of the screw-cutting lathes and improved machine tools built wholly of metal, he was accustomed to making models to illustrate and develop his ideas, and this one was preserved within the company he founded.
It represents quite an advanced machine, specifically designed for making large screws. The screw being cut was turned directly by a labourer at the capstan wheel (the big one on the end at the right). The gears transmitted motion to a lead-screw that drew along the sliding saddle (the piece just right of centre) carrying the cutting tool. The machinist used the micrometer handwheel on the saddle to regulate the depth of the cut and to withdraw the tool as the machine was reversed, ready for another pass.
This model, from c1800, is made of iron, steel and brass, mounted on a wooden display base. It is about 1:8 scale compared with the original full-size lathe, which was probably 2-3m in length and built of iron.
The model was acquired by the Science Museum in 1900 and is one of a multitude of models covering a wide range of items of scientific interest currently displayed under glass on the Model Walkway (mezzanine above the ground floor).