Have you ever wondered how Lock Gates are made? The Canal & River Trust in Wales have given a great insight into how lock gates are made by hand. Take a look at this time-lapse video from the Stanley Ferry Workshop to see the process of making these structures.
How are Lock Gates made?
Building new lock gates is a year-round job for the tradesmen who work for the Canal & River Trust as every single lock gate is unique. They are constructed using a variety of techniques and are designed to navigate the local landscapes of Wales. No two locks are alike, when building new lock gates. Each one is sized up and will be built to the exact specifications for each lock.
An average lock gate lasts for about 25 years. At the end of this period they are sized up and rebuilt back at the workshop. It can take a couple of carpenters two weeks to a month to build a pair of lock gates.
Using Sustainable Oak
Each lock gate is hand-made by skilled carpenters in the traditional way using green sustainable oak. Steel brackets are fitted to strengthen the joints of the gate to make sure it lasts. Many of the cast iron fittings, for example the working paddle gear, are recycled and then reused on the new gates. Other bespoke metalwork such as hoops and collars are also made at the workshops.
The heavy design and construction is needed so that the gate holds up to the pressure of the canal water and can take the continual wear and tear from passing boats.
For more information check out https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/