Re: Machining After The Apocalypse
An old thread, but I'll play.
Assuming a setback to the 1800s level of infrastructure.
Energy Source: Most important because nothing is going to work if you can't power it.
For the short term a diesel (1960's multi fuel military) generator. Maybe a couple of them, one smaller portable.
Wind turbine
Water power
Animal power
Steam power
Battery banks. Tesla battery packs?
As much inverter hardware as you can scrounge up.
Machine tools: All from 1940s to 1970s, easily convertible to alternate power sources, line shaft maybe?
No CNC equipment, unless easily convertible to manual operation after the control system fails.
Horizontal mill
Lathe, 16x60 or so. Maybe a larger one and a smaller one.
Vertical mill
Tool & cutter grinder
Large drill press
As much tooling as you can scrounge for all of the above.
Other Equipment:
Books on every relevant subject, old ''how to'' books
Blacksmithing equipment
Grinders
Welding equipment.
Electrical test and repair equipment
Distilling equipment for fuel (alcohol)
Manual pumps for pumping out fuel tanks. Gasoline has a short shelf life, but diesel/kerosene is good for a long time.
Lifting equipment.
Cutting Tools: As much as you can scrounge up
End mills
Plain milling cutters
Gear cutters
Drill bits
Lathe bits, both HSS and carbide
Taps & dies
Shop Space:
Should be mobile if possible.
Semi-tractor and trailer/container?
Raw materials: Most of this can be scrounged post-apocalypse
Scrounge as needed.
A good stock of fasteners of all types.
Lubricating products.
I could think of more but I need to make some chips.
Jim Dawson
Sandy, Oregon, USA