This
selection of photographs were taken, with permission, a few weeks
before
the quarry closed in September 2007. Fortunately this closure was
only for a few months after which production resumed following the sale
of McAlpine's slate interests to Rigcycle.
Manod concentrated on supplying high quality blocks, slabs and paving. Roofing slate was not produced at the quarry. Ironically the last rock worked at Manod by McAlpine's was not slate but granite. This granite was destined to become exterior facing for the new summit complex at the top of Snowdon.
A view
of
the latter-day quarry buildings looking towards Cwm Penmachno
These vehicles were used to bring the slate to the dressing areas from the quarry higher up the mountain. The vehicle on the left is a water sprayer which was used to keep dust levels down.
A
block
of slate is seen being cut by a wire tipped saw. The sawing is
done
by using a continuous steel band with closely spaced diamond segments.
A closer view of the wire cutting, the flow of water aids the cutting process.
Another slate block gets the wire cutting treatment.
This
machine
was used to give a polished surface to slate surfaces
which
required
a higher quality finish.
A consignment of slate paving awaiting dispatch to the customer.
A pallet load of Manod granite is ready for dispatch to the summit of Snowdon.
Further examples of Manod granite are seen in this view.
This
travelling
saw was used to cut blocks of slate lengthwise.
The
secret wartime role of Manod