This has been a big week for disassembly of the Worthington pumps! After long-term treatment in electrolytic reduction and removal of chlorides from the outer surfaces of the pumps, it’s time to remove as many of the internal moving parts as possible to make sure all surfaces are conserved. This week Eric and Gary removed the port pump damping piston from its steam chest, and also separated both port and starboard pump damping pistons from their valve rods.
This was accomplished by supporting the parts in a vertical hydraulic press and carefully applying pressure to the target areas with the help of tools and support plates made by Gary.
The valve rods, which were originally made with a precision machined tapered fit into the pistons, were successfully removed without damage, allowing for thorough treatment of all surfaces.
Stay tuned for Part 2!
Am very interested in the Worthington Pumps as I work for the pump company who bought Worthington. I started with Worthington Pump & Machinery at their world headquarters in Harrison, NJ over 45 years ago. Over the years I have collected company publications and have some advertising going back to 1870’s when the company was located on Van Brunt St. in Brooklyn, NY.
It is possible pumps on the Monitor are the oldest Worthington Pumps in existence.
Who would be the best person to contact to get more information ?
Very nice to hear from a ‘Worthington man’! The history of the Worthington companies and their descendants is a fascinating part of America’s industrial heritage. We think its possible that our two Worthingtons from theMonitorare among the oldest surviving. They are marked with an ‘1848’ patent date, though most likely produced around the time of the ship’s construction.