Feb 16 2016

How Jackhammers Work

30 min 1 movie discussed
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It's likely that without the invention of the pneumatic jackhammer, the Industrial Revolution wouldn't have hummed along quite so smoothly. Certainly a lot more trains would go around mountains than through them. Learn about this essential tool here.

AI Summary

# Stuff You Should Know Episode Summary

Josh and Chuck break down everything you need to know about jackhammersβ€”those incredibly loud, brutally powerful tools that have come a long way since they replaced the sledgehammer in construction and mining. They trace the fascinating history of how pneumatic technology revolutionized tough jobs, explain the surprisingly simple mechanics of how these things actually work (spoiler: it's all about a speedy piston and compressed air), and then dive deep into why operating one is so physically punishing and potentially dangerous to your health. Along the way they share some wild safety warnings and explore why quieter alternatives still haven't caught on in the industry despite noise complaints going through the roof.


Movies Discussed

No Country for Old Men
No Country for Old Men
2007 2h 2m
★ 7.9
"It's exactly like that. Not very good if you're trying to bust up concrete. But good if you want to put a rod through. Stun a cow. β€” Chuck compares the pneumatic cattle punch from the movie to how an early jackhammer design worked with manual reset." β€” Chuck

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