Moanatairi Pumping Association.

Thames Star, Volume X, Issue 3362, 1 October 1879, Page 2

Moanatairi Pumping Association.

THE DIVING OPERATIONS.

The direr telegraphed for by Mr Comer to assist in the repairing ot the submerged plunger packing, arrived yesterday with his dress and implements, and made a Btart this morning at niue o'clock. The air pump was placed in a level ICO feet above the surface of the water, of which there is 60 feet over the plunger. The pluuger attached to the windingengine was got ready and the diver lowered into the dark cavity. Very soon, however, he signalled to be hauled up, and on returning to the level he explained there was something wrong with the air supply and he had not been able to effect anything. Another attempt was made with n similar result. It has been ascertained that the cause of the defective working of the apparatus is the length of hose it has been found necessary to use irom the distance intervening with the level and the plunger. The weight of the hose causes it to bulge and thus interfering with the free passage of air. To obviate this it has been decided to erect a temporary stage for the the air pump just above the surface- of the water, when it is expected the drawback complained of will be remedied. The diver is an experienced man, having had seven years' connection with diving pursuits, and is pretty confident that he will be able to do what is required. The apparatus is, we understand, the property of" the .New Zealand Insurance Company, aud must be of considerable value, as we are informed that tiie Associatit>u were required to enter into a bond of £500 to return it in good order before it could be lent to them.