Motors, Fuels, and Gas Plants
CHAPTER XXXVII
Treadles and Water Motors
262. Definition of Motor. A motor is a device for utilizing the power stored in gasoline, electricity or elevated water for doing work. The structure of the motor depends upon the source of its power, as does its name. Besides the motor, there is a treadle, or foot-power motor, used in the home.
Fig. 149. Water motor.
263. The Treadle. The treadle is a small platform, which rocks on two pivots. As the treadle is rocked, it moves a rod attached to its outer edge, upward and downward. This rod is then attached to a wheel a short distance from the hub, so that the upward and downward motion of the shaft turns the wheel. When a belt is attached to the wheel, it will run a sewing machine or other small device.
264. Water Motors. Water motors are commonly used in the household on washing machines and pumps (Figs. 149 and 149-a.) At least twenty-five pounds of water pressure is required to run an average-size washer. More pressure is advantageous. The motor may be, and often is, attached to tanks in which water is held under pressure, and used to pump water from a cistern or well.
Fig. 149-a. "Reliable" water motor.