Adam Savage's One Day Builds - Machining a Gear!
**Adam Savage's Flywheel Car Project: A Deep Dive into Gear Machining and Engineering**
In this detailed exploration of Adam Savage's ambitious project to build a large flywheel car, we delve into the intricate process he undertook, from conceptualizing the idea to meticulously machining each component. This article provides an in-depth look at his journey, challenges, and achievements.
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### **Introduction: The Conceptualization**
Adam Savage, renowned for his work on *MythBusters*, shares his passion for engineering as he discusses his desire to construct a massive flywheel car. Inspired during his world tour with Jamie Hyneman between 2012 and 2016, this project became a personal challenge to create something both powerful and complex.
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### **The Gear Train: Design and Challenges**
Savage meticulously examined an existing flywheel car, noting its gear train comprised of four gears (36, 12, 46, and 8 teeth) driving one set of wheels. The intricate setup required precise specifications, particularly the gears with a diametral pitch of 12 and a 14.5-degree pressure angle. While he successfully sourced gears with 36 and 46 teeth, locating the 12 and 8 tooth gears proved challenging. This scarcity highlighted the need for custom machining.
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### **Understanding Gear Geometry: A Technical Breakdown**
Gears function as individual levers transferring energy efficiently when their teeth are engaged. The pressure angle and pitch determine the gear's geometry, ensuring optimal energy transfer. Savage explains that gears with a 14.5-degree pressure angle and diametral pitch of 12 must be custom-made. He emphasizes the importance of matching these specifications to ensure smooth operation.
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### **Machining Precision: The Process Begins**
Savage embarked on machining the required gears using a lathe and milling machine. Recognizing the complexity, he broke down each step, starting with setting up his tools. He utilized a dividing head and adjustable tailstock for precise gear cutting, underscoring the necessity of tramming (aligning) the mill to ensure accuracy.
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### **Custom Gear Cutting: Tools and Techniques**
To cut gears without ready-made components, Savage crafted his own solutions. He machined an arbor to fit his gear cutter, allowing him to shape gears with the correct geometry. This involved calculating each gear's outer diameter and cutting depth based on its number of teeth. His process included:
1. **Determining Gear Dimensions**: Using a gear calculator, he found the smallest number of teeth (10) compatible with his pitch.
2. **Setting Up Tools**: He prepared his lathe and mill, ensuring all tools were aligned correctly.
3. **Precision Machining**: Each gear was carefully cut, with attention to detail in achieving the right diameter and depth.
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### **Overcoming Obstacles: Learning and Innovation**
Savage's journey was marked by learning curves. He drew parallels between car repairs and machining, noting how each task built his skills. His first attempts at cutting gears were rudimentary but successful, dispelling his initial doubts about tackling such a complex task.
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### **The Outcome: A Work in Progress**
By the end of the video, Savage had cut several gears, though the project remained incomplete. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed satisfaction in demystifying machining for himself and viewers. His flywheel car stood as a testament to persistence and ingenuity.
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### **Conclusion: Reflections and Encouragement**
Savage reflects on his progress, celebrating small victories like cutting his first gear. He encourages viewers to embrace challenges, emphasizing that engineering projects are best approached with patience and a willingness to learn. His project serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and machinists alike.
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This article captures the essence of Adam Savage's flywheel car project, showcasing his technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and passion for engineering. Each step he took, from conceptualization to execution, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship required in such endeavors.