Maker Faire Bay Area 2023
Kinetic Steam Works Railroad Handcar
Home: California, United States
Our entirely-shop-built narrow gauge railroad handcar features shop-cast aluminum curved-spoke wheels and cast-iron hubs. Attendees can pump the car down 100 feet of vintage 9-pound rail and feel like they’re on a real track maintenance crew. We’ll print commemorative collectible coasters on our 117 year old steam powered printing press. Our 26 foot steam launch “S.L. Victoria” will be on display as well as our 1898 Stanley Steamer Locomobile.
http://kineticsteamworks.org/MF2023.html
Additional Project Photos
Maker
Kinetic Steam Works
KSW formed in 2005 as a group of retro-tech industrial artisans who 'repurpose the artifacts of clockwork modernity” We combine elements and machinery of the Industrial Revolution with art and engineering to honor our past and inspire the future.
http://kineticsteamworks.orgWhat Inspired You to Make This?
The gear wall/clock was inspired by a cafe in Romania called Enigma. As a whimsical touch, the hour and minute hands of the clock turn opposite directions like the hands on the clock above the haunted mansion at Disneyland. The railroad handcar is inspired by actual vintage handcars, but is a foot smaller in width and length and geared slightly lower to start and stop quickly and make it easier for beginners to move. The other steam machinery is vintage and making is usually limited to casting/machining replacement parts as they wear/break after 100+ years of service.
