Welcome to Volume 8 of Random Clock Talks, where we dive into the unpredictable and thought-provoking topics that arise in everyday conversations. In this edition, we explore a variety of subjects that are sure to challenge and inspire you. Join us as we take a deep dive into the unexpected and engage in stimulating discussions that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So grab your coffee, sit back, and enjoy the ride. Let’s get started.

Introduction

Time is an essential element in our lives, and clocks help us keep track of it. The design and assembly of clocks have been an age-long occupation, and the clock has been essential in the development of technology. Humans have always been fascinated by the movement of gears and the ticking sound of clocks. The art of clock-making has evolved over time, and many skilled clock makers have honed their craft, creating some extraordinary timepieces. This article, “Exploring the Unpredictable Topics of Random Clock Talks: Volume 8,” will focus on the clock making process. We will examine how to make and fit a replacement pinion for a clock wheel, the making of new great wheels for clocks, and the use of precision reaming to hold fit the arbor.

Making and Fitting a Replacement Pinion for a Clock Wheel

In this section, we will discuss how to make and fit a replacement pinion for a clock wheel. Jay Huckabee, a certified Master clock maker, demonstrates the process in a video tutorial. The process starts by using the milling machine to make rivets. The rivets are used to fix the pinion to the wheel of the clock. Arbor and wheel blank are used to cut out the wheel from a sheet of brass.

Teeth of the original wheel are matched at the metric module of 0.65 and 62. A backup plate is turned from aluminum to support the gear and improve the quality of the cut. The cutter will throw out small burrs on the backside of the new gear, which will be cleaned up later. The process involves at least 60 passes with the blank.

A drawbar through the index plate and an index pin are used to cut the gear. A derbyshire milling machine is used, which was built in the early days of World War 1. A lever feed is used to operate the table. A container of red oil and watercolor brushes are used to lubricate the cut. The approximate depth of the cut is about 70 thousandths of an inch.

Making a New Great Wheel for a Clock

Making a new great wheel for a clock is an essential component of clock making. The great wheel is responsible for driving the power train, which moves the clock’s hands. This process involves making an arbor and wheel blank. Precision reaming holds fit the arbor, and teeth are matched with precision. The wheel is cut on a derbyshire milling machine, similar to that used to make the pinion. The depth of cut and feed rate is adjusted to create the perfect gear.

Precision Reaming to Hold Fit the Arbor

Precision reaming to hold fit the arbor is an essential process in clock making. When cutting the teeth of the wheel, it is essential to maintain the exact measurements for the gear’s smooth functioning. The arbor is reamed to have the same diameter as the holes in the plate. This ensures that the wheel will move freely and precisely.

Conclusion

Clock making is an intricate art that requires a high level of skill and patience. The creation of new clocks and clock parts requires attention to detail and precision. The making and fitting of pinions and great wheels, as well as precision reaming to hold fit the arbor, is an essential part of the clock making process. In conclusion, the process requires a great deal of focus, expertise, and technical know-how.

FAQs

1. Is it difficult to make a new great wheel for a clock?
   Making a new great wheel for a clock requires a high level of skill and patience. It involves precision reaming and matching teeth to create the perfect gear. Thus, a high level of technical know-how is required.

2. What is the approximate depth of the cut when making a new great wheel for a clock?
   When making a new great wheel for a clock, the approximate depth of the cut is about 70 thousandths of an inch.

3. What type of milling machine is used to make a pinion?
   The derbyshire milling machine is used to make a pinion.

4. How many passes are required when cutting the gear?
   The process involves at least 60 passes with the blank.

5. How important is precision reaming in clock making?
   Precision reaming to hold fit the arbor is an essential process in clock making. When cutting the teeth of the wheel, it is essential to maintain the exact measurements for the gear’s smooth functioning.