Antikythera Fragment #6 - Ancient Tool Technology - Making A Hand Powered Drill
Clickspring・10 minutes read
The Antikythera mechanism demonstrates Ancient Greek precision in creating small holes using tools like the Pump Drill with bronze and copper drill bits. Modern materials like steel and fishing line can be used as substitutes, and plans for replication are freely available.
Insights
- The Antikythera mechanism's intricate design relied on precise small holes created by ancient Greeks, showcasing their advanced engineering capabilities.
- The drilling tool used for crafting the mechanism featured interchangeable drill bits made from a variety of materials, emphasizing the resourcefulness and craftsmanship of ancient artisans.
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Recent questions
How did Ancient Greeks create precise holes?
Using tools like the Pump Drill.
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Summary
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Ancient Greek drilling tool replication instructions available.
- The Antikythera mechanism showcases the Ancient Greeks' ability to create precise small holes, crucial for its functioning.
- Evidence suggests that the majority of holes in the mechanism were drilled, possibly using the Pump Drill, one of the oldest drilling tools.
- The tool designed for drilling includes interchangeable drill bits made from raw materials like bronze, copper, tin, and local oak.
- Modern substitutes like mild steel, HDPE, and heavy gauge fishing line are used where authentic materials are difficult to source.
- Plans for building the tool are available for free download, encouraging replication.
- The flywheel is cast from bronze using a sand mold and a mixture of tin and copper.
- The collets, parts holding the drill bits, are formed from bronze and designed with square drivers for precision.
- The tool includes a shaft, drive handle, ferrules for reinforcement, and collets with cross-drilled holes for retaining pins.
