boilers and regulations

[mikemd]

Hi all, just joined your exciting forum. Not too sure how all this works. As I have now retired with time to return to my model making interests. Currently half way through Twin Victoria. Not related to this I wish to ask way is it not considered correct to use an old boiler. I appreciate boilers need for safety reasons to be tested and a certificate issued but it would seem engineers are reluctant to consider using old probably used boilers. Did the real steam engineers LMS /LNER etc decide a train could not be used if it had been idle for some time. Does copper gradually loose it's strength over a period of time. Or after the logical checking of possible failing parts/seals connections or related weak points is carried out, is the boiler deemed safe.

[waggy]

Hello Mike,
At the risk of getting shouted at, there's nothing wrong with an old boiler!

Are you a member of a club, if so a boiler inspector should be available for you to ask advice re getting the thing tested? (If not, make joining one a priority, only my opinion you understand.) Age of the boiler shouldn't be a barrier, especially if the general condition is good.

Full size boilers were stored outside by the railway companies and used as required, but were always tested hydraulically and in steam before being allowed into service. Indeed, I believe two Southern Railway boilers were recently discovered in a sugar plant which have been rescued and there are plans to use one on a new loco build? They must have been out of use for many years, I seem to remember seeing photo's of them surrounded by trees and bushes?

Good luck and welcome,

Waggy.

[alanstepney]

The main problems are that some older model boilers were rivetted, and / or with seams caulked with soft solder.
Nothing wrong with either, unless any leaks occur, when it may be impossible to repair them to satisfactory condition.

Also, some of the rules have changed.
For example, common practice was to tap threads directly into, for example, the backhead for fittings and the boiler shell for handrails.
Nowadays that isnt allowed as it can (a) result in insuficient thread to secure the fitting and (b) weaken the structure.

If the boiler tests OK, then use it. If not, it is probably best to start all over again.

[mikemd]

Hi thanks guys these forum sites are OK arn't they. My first attempt and two replies most helpful I have a whole brain full of questions.

[russell]

Dec 30, 2010 7:26:19 GMT mikemd said:

I have a whole brain full of questions.

Keep them comiing. You will find lots of knowledge and experience here.

Russell.