Catalogue

Interview
1491, TA/08/258
Talking About Technology

Speaker: Robinson, Cecil, 1930 - , Interviewee, Male, Iron Works, Production Co-ordinator;
Speaker: Wainwright, C., Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Gives brief details of early life and schooling in Melton Mowbray and Holwell. Mentions family connections to working at Holwell Iron works where he started work as an apprentice in 1944. Gives details of apprenticeship, starting as messenger, then into the fitting shop. Describes various processes and machines including the lathes and marking off. Recalls after 7 year apprenticeship worked on servicing cranes and locomotives. Recalls various tools used. Comments on experience of apprenticeship. Mentions call up for National Service and return to Holwell. Describes work 'marking off', technological changes and shaft belt workshop. Describes move into the Inspection department, the process and instruments used and how process was modernized. Describes continuous casting process, improvements and effects of improvements on productivity. Explains cleaning, fettling and dressing and what flash is. Describes next development in continuous casting in 1969. Describes work as quality engineer, including ultrasonic testing and the main advantages of the Kunkel-Wagner automatic foundry. Describes a core setting machine. Reflects on the changes in health and safety and improvements brought by new plant. Reflects on all aspects of working for Holwell over 47 years
Place of birth: Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire
Education: Melton Modern Boys school;
Marital Status: , Children:
Father's Occupation: Crane driver
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Melton Mowbray, Holwell
Periods Covered: 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s,
Language: English

Recording Date: 19/1/2001
Playing time: 45 mins
Access Restrictions: Restricted Item Copyright: Bournemouth University
Summary: No
Transcription: Yes
Copies: yes
Cross Reference:

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.