Despite being a small region geographically, Northern Ireland has produced some of the world’s most interesting and influential inventions. This creative and local spirit continues to inspire us at McGreevy Engineering in our quest to manufacture the highest quality products. 

 

In honour of NI Manufacturing Month, we’re taking a look at some of the most famous inventions that Northern Ireland can be credited with.   

 

The modern tractor, by Harry Ferguson 

 

Harry Ferguson, from Growell, County Down, invented the three-point linkage system, the basis of today’s modern tractor. Previously, tractors and ploughs were two separate entities, making them difficult and dangerous to operate. Ferguson hitched the two together and used hydraulics to move the plough section, making farming safer and more cost effective.  

 

The Ejector seat, by Sir James Martin 

 

During World War Two, Sir James Martin from Crossgar, County Down, investigated pilot escape mechanisms for the Spitfire and devised an explosive charge to forcibly eject the seated pilot when travelling at high speeds. The first static ejector seat test was conducted in 1945, with the first in-flight test taking place a year later. The success of this invention meant it was soon adopted by the Royal Air force as a standard safety device.  

 

Portable defibrillator, by Frank Pantridge 

 

Frank Pantridge from Hillsborough, County Down was a cardiac consultant at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast. In 1966, after seeing the need to urgently treat cardiac patients, Pantridge invented the portable defibrillator. Since then, these devices have been used in ambulances and at the scene of cardiac arrest, saving countless lives worldwide. 

 

Streetcars, by John Stephenson 

 

In 1833, John Stephenson, from Armagh, designed, built and exported the world’s first omnibus and streetcar. His designs graced cities such as London, St Petersburg and Paris, with his business endeavours remaining successful until the Great Depression forced his company’s closure. 

 

Electric tramway, by William and Anthony Traill 

 

County Antrim brothers, William and Anthony Traill, invented the world’s first electric tramway with the construction of the Giant’s Causeway Tramway in 1833, which linked Bushmills with Portrush. Four years later, a second section was constructed which connected Bushmills with the Giant’s Causeway.  

Safety lamp, by Willian Reid Clanny

William Reid Clanny was born in Bangor, County Down, and served as an assistant surgeon in the Royal Navy. In 1812, the Felling colliery disaster in Gateshead prompted him to deal with problems of underground lighting, leading him to complete the first lamp consisting of a candle in a glass surround. 

 

The Los Angeles Aqueduct, by William Mulholland

Born in Belfast, William Mulholland spent four years in the Merchant Navy before settling in California in 1877, aged 22. A self-taught engineer, Mulholland designed the 200-mile Los Angeles Aqueduct, bringing water to the city. Built over five years and opened in 1913, the structure precipitated LA’s economic and cultural growth. 

 

It’s clear that Northern Ireland has a rich innovative history which has inspired many of the world’s finest inventions. This is a history which McGreevy Engineering is proud to be a part of, as we play a key role in helping to manufacture parts for exciting future projects.  

 

If you have any questions or would like more information on our services and products, contact us by calling: 028 9044 8755 or email: [email protected].