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Continued...
Bennett Associates application of proven mechanical solutions for
the gearing mechanism allows the 13,000 tonne wheel, carrying 500 tonnes of
water in its gondolas, to turn near continuously, completing a half revolution
every 15 minutes.
The simplicity of the gearing design belies the fact that the
whole arm assembly has to rotate to incredibly fine tolerances under extreme and
ever changing loads. The real engineering innovation however goes unseen, in the
solution created by Bennetts for the gondola gates - ingenious, self sealing and
self energising lock gates with a compact latch assembly that was instrumental
in allowing the architect's design for the appearance of the wheel to be
achieved.
The end result of the close collaboration between architect and
engineer on the Falkirk Wheel project is a simple, efficient and effective piece
of machinery with all the glamour and visual impact of a piece of modern
sculpture. For more information, contact us on
01709-373782 |
