Continued from 1873 as William Dixon Ltd
References
Gigantic Casting.The workmen in the employment of Mr Andrew Barclay, of the Caledonian Foundry, cast a cylinder yesterday afternoon, the dimensions of which, so far as we know, are greater than any one yet made in Scotland. Its diameter is 84 inches; its extreme length 15 feet, and when the engine which it is made is working, the length of stroke will be 13 feet. To show the immense amount of material used in completing this gigantic piece of workmanship, we may mention that 22 tons of metal were poured into the mould, which had been for five weeks previonusly in preparation. The weight of the casting when finished will he 18 tons. The pumps which the engine for which the cylinder has been made is intended to work, are one of 28 inches and one of 27 inches diameter, which may give some idea of the quantity of water that it will discharge at each stroke. The engine when finished is to be erected at the Coltness Company's Works, Crofthead, near Whitburn, and is a companion to one of the same class which Mr Barclay constructed for the same company about six years ago. The casting of the gigantic cylinder was in every respect a complete success, and is a most notable addition to the many achievements of this eminent establishment. While there is comparative stagnation in other branches of local industry, it is gratifying to find that Mr. Barclay's engineering enterprise is acknowledged by having such an immense specimen of workmanship and skill entrusted to him for execution.
Kilmarnock Weekly Post and County of Ayr Reporter, 9th May 1863
