Prompt Cast
The History and Impact of Jackhammers
TLDR Jackhammers were invented in the 1840s as a safer alternative to mining tools. They have since become a widely used tool in construction, but their noise and vibrations can have negative effects on the human body. Safety precautions should be taken when using a jackhammer.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
The episode is about jackhammers and the hosts discuss receiving special gifts of knives.
03:50
Jackhammers are a hard core hammer and chisel that were invented in the 1840s to replace sledgehammers and pickaxes for mining, which were dangerous and deadly.
07:47
In 1848, a guy named Jonathan Couch built a percussion drill that was piston driven, and it wasn't until 1895 that Charles Brady King invented the modern pneumatic powered jackhammer, which is still used today because it is air powered and doesn't spark.
11:41
The modern pneumatic powered jackhammer works by using compressed air to activate a trigger valve, which moves the air either above or below the piston, causing the chisel to go up or down.
15:52
The jackhammer creates different types of flaws in the concrete, starting with a surface powder that congeals around the drill bit and transmits the impact throughout the rest of the concrete pad, creating cracks.
19:52
As cracks in the concrete spread and propagate, they eventually come together and cause big chunks to break off, which then need to be cleared away so that the jackhammer can continue removing material in larger pieces.
24:01
Jackhammers create a noise at about 130 decibels, which is equivalent to the sound of a jet engine taking off, and the vibrations from using a jackhammer can have negative effects on the human body, including insomnia, digestive issues, and motion sickness.
27:55
Using a jackhammer can lead to physical pain, psychological issues, and vibration sickness, and it is important to take safety precautions such as wearing protective gear and checking for gas and power lines before using one.
31:45
The speaker mentions a free afterschool program called Totally Cool Totally Art in Austin, Texas that offers classes in various arts, including the art of machines, painting, film, fiber arts, and photography.
Categories:
Society & Culture
