Digit
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10 years ago
Whilst looking at the Imperial War Museum site, by chance I discovered this interesting poster:-

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/31430 

and this possibly related (similarity of colour and topic) item:-

http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/31431 

Anyone know anything more beyond the obvious implications?
~~~ The future is not what it used to be ~~~
AR
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10 years ago
I presume the "sylat" would be a sylvester, and I'm guessing the second refers to some sort of steel prop, given Hadfields were one of the big Sheffield steelmakers?
Follow the horses, Johnny my laddie, follow the horses canny lad-oh!
Digit
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10 years ago
Thanks AR that makes sense.
~~~ The future is not what it used to be ~~~
Graigfawr
10 years ago
The poster looks more WW2 than WW1 to my eyes. This interpretation is supported by the date of this article:

"The Science and Art of Mining: 12th May 1934, Page: 339, Column: 1: Possibilities for Extended Use: The Inspector in Charge of the North Western Division, Mr. W. J. Charlton, describing briefly the "Sylat" prop invented by Mr. Walter Sylvester, says this is a safety prop with the usual wedge to facilitate setting and with means provided for locking the head to the prop. To release the prop all that is necessary is to remove the security pin, insert the hook of the usual five-yards Sylvester chain in the link provided, and give a sharp flick to the chain; sometimes two or more flicks are required, according to the load upon the prop. This operation serves the double purpose of unlocking and withdrawing the head, the load upon the prop assisting. The prop falls in the direction of the drawer, who gives a sharp jerk to the chain if the falling roof threatens to bury the prop. This steel prop will sustain heavy loads, and has the merit of easy withdrawal, as well as easy recovery from wastes, without the operator having to return to the released prop and expose himself under unsupported roof."

http://www.dmm.org.uk/news19/9340512.htm 
Morlock
Buckhill
10 years ago
Nice find Morlock - shows the method and the steel prop. Haven't used a Sylvester in over 20 years (not really approved of by the authorities I believe but when the budget didn't run to Tirfors they occasionally came out of the hidey-hole).
Digit
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10 years ago
Thanks Morlock that was a really interesting and informative read.
~~~ The future is not what it used to be ~~~
Morlock
10 years ago
Last time I used a Sylvester was at Monkton Farleigh, a good few years back.

Very handy bit of kit!

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