The Technology of Ancient Greece

VHS Hydraulic Components Complete Hydraulie Campanent Supply THE TECHN OLOGY OF ANCIENT GREECE As early as 3rd century BC, the Ancient Greeks were using engineering technology to aid the pumping of water. Here we take a look at examples of systems used by Ancient Greeks to achieve this. The Hydraulic Wheel of Perachora One of the most ancient pumping devices in Europe, this mechanism worked by the rotation of two connected cogwheels, turned by animals. This resulted in containers filling with ater at the bottom a large wheel. These were then tipped over into a conduit at the top. The Kilonion (Shantuf) This mechanism consisted of a wooden leaver, one end holding a bucket and the other attached to large stones. The stones worked as a counterbalance to the bucket that would fill with water and then be pulled up by rope. The Bellow This ingenious machine was placed inside a well, the bottom of which was covered with stone or timbers. The system made use of a cylindrical leather bellow with a wooden frame and reciprocating movement of the attached pivoted lever allowed water into the bottom of the bellow through a leather non-return valve. This action pumped water up into the outflow pipe. Today, hydraulic systems rely on pumps to force liquid into hydraulic cylinders. These systems perform a multitude of tasks that require high power output. VHS Hydraulic Components have been appointed as an Authorised Distributor on behalf of Casappa, who are a leading manufacturer of a wide range of hydraulic gear pumps and motors. For more information on your specialist requirements visit www.hydraulic-components.net to see the full range of Casappa products. Unit 2 Carley Drive Sheffield S20 8NQ United Kingdom VHS Hydraulic Components Complete Hydraulic Component Supply Tel: 01142 764430 Fax: 01142 472526 www.hydraulic-components.net email: [email protected]