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Post by Deleted on Jan 2, 2014 8:30:36 GMT
Why is brass traditionally used for smokeboxes? I know copper can equally be used, with it's slightly different mechanical properties, but brass does seem to be more often specified in this use.
Dave
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bhk
Part of the e-furniture
Posts: 458 
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Post by bhk on Jan 2, 2014 8:42:19 GMT
Could use steel, stainless steel even aluminium.
Thing is brass is easy to work, and cheaper than copper.
Think its that simple.
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Post by ejparrott on Jan 2, 2014 13:26:46 GMT
Steel, paint sticks better.
More to the point, damn sight cheaper!
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uuu
Elder Statesman
your message here...
Posts: 2,857
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Post by uuu on Jan 2, 2014 17:38:22 GMT
Steel for me.
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Post by Ruston92 on Jan 2, 2014 23:01:25 GMT
I use steel, a lot easier to paint and a lot cheaper if you make a mistake on it.
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jma1009
Elder Statesman
Posts: 5,917
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Post by jma1009 on Jan 2, 2014 23:57:51 GMT
hi dave,
ive always used steel. agree with wilf and ed regards same. never had any rust problems, and steel takes paint far better.
cheers,
julian
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Post by maunsell on Jan 5, 2014 17:22:02 GMT
I used brass on my 5" gauge "U" Class smokebox as there were a number of 10BA bolts for the snifting valves etc to be tapped out, and it got rid of a future corrosion problem which I did have experience of with my older locomotives. All of the platework was also brass. Over the years I have seen serious corrosion problems with steel plate tenders which despite careful painting internally as well as externally and in the end have had to be replaced.
Painting just needs a good etch primer base coat.
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Post by mattscrutton on Jan 7, 2014 14:02:40 GMT
not only does my Midge have a copper smokebox, it has a copper ashpan! I have never encountered that anywhere else.
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pault
Elder Statesman
Posts: 1,500
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Post by pault on Jan 7, 2014 14:17:01 GMT
Steel for me cheaper, takes paint better, less likely to dent, cooler to touch. Downside they do rust if not looked after especially if you leave them dirty in damp conditions.
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Post by mattscrutton on Jan 7, 2014 16:32:33 GMT
Steel for me cheaper, takes paint better, less likely to dent, cooler to touch. Downside they do rust if not looked after especially if you leave them dirty in damp conditions. less likely to grab 6ba taps....cough |
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