Hungarian Winch

Wieliczka Salt Mine. Kraj chamber. The Hungarian-style horse powered winch mechanism was used for the vertical transportation of salt. It was able to lift loads that weighed over 2 tonnes from a depth greater than 300 m. The model reflects the original Hungarian-style horse mill that was used at level I of the Mirów shaft. The winding reel of the rope (diameter over 3 m) was placed on the vertical shaft and was divided into two parts by a brake-pulley. The pulling arms placed high made the maneuvering of the four pairs of horses easier when there was a need to change direction. The two-shoe brake was activated by the system of wheelworks linked with wooden poles. The suspended structure supported the mechanisms of the brake and rollers of transporting ropes. I was reminded here of the underground camel-powered olive press I saw in Iran. DSC_0612p1

The Wieliczka Salt Mines

September 17th 2018
The salt mines of Wieliczka have been in operation for over 700 years. Extraction of salt from surface brine began in the 13 century. Under the patronage of Kazimierz III the Great (1310-1370), extraction mining began in earnest in the 14th century. Salt was a valuable commodity, not only for seasoning but for preservation of foodstuffs. Tours of the mine reach 443 feet (135 m), though the the wor ... read more

Europe » Poland » Lesser Poland » Wieliczka

Poland is an ancient nation that was conceived near the middle of the 10th century. Its golden age occurred in the 16th century. During the following century, the strengthening of the gentry and internal disorders weakened the nation. In a series of ... ... read more

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