walking beam

noun

, Machinery.

1. an overhead oscillating lever, pivoted at the middle, for transmitting force from a vertical connecting rod below one end to a vertical connecting rod, pump rod, etc., below the other end.

Word History and Origins

Origin of walking beam¹

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45

Example Sentences

“A lot of them have the big walking beam arms on top or a clutch-type - all different functions of getting the rope to go up and down. But these are the only two that I’m aware of that actually have the freefall.”

From Washington Times

Although the Hydraulic Engineer, so long before as December, 1884, had recommended the Minister to import American boring machinery with men trained to work it, it was not until 19th October, 1886, nearly two years later, that he was able to announce that his advice had been so far followed that Mr. Arnold, an American borer from Honolulu, had gone to Blackall with a Pennsylvania Walking Beam Oil Rig boring machine which had been constructed in Brisbane.

From Project Gutenberg

In the same month the Treasurer received a letter from the late Hon. George King, of Gowrie Station, Darling Downs, directing attention to the "Walking Beam Rig" machine, an American well-boring apparatus, by the use of which it had been ascertained that his firm might have saved �4,500 out of the �6,000 spent by it in well-sinking in the Warrego district.

From Project Gutenberg

Being a staunchily built wooden boat with double "walking beam" engines, working independently, one on each wheel, she always got herself off with little trouble or damage.

From Project Gutenberg

The contrast between the two steamers was most noticeable, the Rothesay with high walking beam engine and broad skimming dish appearance, with the sea-going ability, and double red funnels of the Chicora.

From Project Gutenberg