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| THE PROJECT |
| MY DIAL |
| FUNDRAISING |
| LINKS |
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| Dial Plate |
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| Plywood
templates were made that accurately reflected the layout of
the threaded rods in each of the piles. These templates were
used to drill the holes in hollow structural steel tube using
a magnetic drill. This work was carried out by volunteers, Clive
Schultz, Barrie Burnett
and Carl Sabanski.
A 12 in. wide by 8 in. high by 96 in. long, 0.375 in. thick tube is bolted to the threaded rods in the piles of the east-west line. This tube is 4 in. below the surface of the dial plate when complete. A 12 in. wide by 12 in. high by 15.25 ft. long, 0.375 in. thick tube is bolted to the threaded rods in the piles of the north-south line and welded securely to the structural tube in the east-west line. A port was cut in this tube to gain access to the threaded rods of the centre pile. The port was later welded closed. This configuration provides a massive support system for the gnomon and also resists twisting. Great care was taken in aligning both tubes but in particular the north-south tube had to be positioned as accurately as possible. Note that the drainage system has been completed and is covered with gravel. The space between the gravel and the bottom of the two structural steel tubes is filled with styrofoam to provide a void. The base material does not make contact with bottom of the tubes. The gnomon was installed next! For more details and photos please go to the "GNOMON" page of the site. |
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The
gnomon was erected in November of 2000 and soon after winter
set in. Construction did not commence again until the spring
of 2001. This gave the base one winter to settle in. No
noticeable changes were evident.
The batter boards were set up to establish the corners of the dial plate. Barrie and I produced numerous tables that established the position of all the dial components and cross-checks to help find any major errors. We were ready! |
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| The
etched granite tiles were transported from the artists' studio
to the site. The rail for the hour lines was also transported
to the site. Materials were ordered and delivered for the surface
of the dial plate. This consisted of tumbled pavers, more
crushed limestone and sand. A landscaping contractor was hired
to install the granite tiles, rail and pavers.
One outstanding issue was the walls of the plate. The elevated base being constructed of crushed limestone was resulting in the slow erosion of the sides. Some type of retaining wall was required but this had yet to be determined. |
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