Machinist - Ring bearer 1908

by Mike Savad

Title

Machinist - Ring bearer 1908

Artist

Mike Savad

Medium

Photograph - Hand Colored Photo

Description

Hand colored photo from 1908
Original title: 16" BC distance ring, drilling & taping for roller bearings
Photographer: Unknown
Location: 130 Arsenal Yards Blvd, Watertown, MA

The Watertown Arsenal offers a compelling snapshot of American industrial power in the early 20th century. Located in Watertown, Massachusetts, this major U.S. Army facility was established in 1816 and became pivotal for producing military equipment. By the time of this photograph, the Arsenal had evolved into a center for advanced materials testing and manufacturing, producing high-precision components for artillery, heavy vehicles, and other essential military machinery.

In this scene, a group of skilled machinists clusters around massive machines, intently focused on shaping a large, circular metal component. This round piece, rests atop a rotary table that allows for precise, controlled movements. The machine they're using appears designed for "facing" or "boring," processes crucial for creating smooth surfaces or widening the ring's inner diameter to exacting specifications. Such large-scale machining required incredible skill, as even minor deviations could impact the performance of the equipment the bearing would eventually support.

The bearings produced here were probably intended for heavy-duty applications, where they would provide smooth rotation for massive loads under extreme conditions. Bearings like these were essential for military equipment, supporting the rotation of tank turrets, artillery, or naval gun mounts. Their strength and precision ensured reliability and safety under the most demanding conditions.

This image captures the grit, skill, and ingenuity of the machinists whose work upheld the Arsenal's reputation for excellence, showcasing the sheer scale of both the machinery and the human effort behind these feats of engineering.

Uploaded

November 12th, 2024

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