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Post by dickdastardly40 on Mar 17, 2007 12:23:32 GMT
Hi Fellas,
I'm at the stage in my triple exansion build where I want to fabricate my crankshaft. I have made all the journals etc and am ready to silver solder. I did some of this in the past when I was an apprentice (23 odd years ago) but never since. I remember plenty of the correct flux and the material being clean as the keys. I have drilled small holes through the throws at 90 deg to the journals to feed the solder so I don't need to end feed and can see at the joints when I have penetration.
I'm intending using oxy-acetylene as it is available at work but as I recall this creates and the flux creates a messy finish which will be difficult to clean.
I'm after some advice as to whether oxy-a is the best way to go or will I get enough heat with propane and the best way to clean afterwards or if elbow grease and emery is the best way.
Thanks in anticipation of a reply.
Al
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Post by ron on Mar 17, 2007 13:13:55 GMT
Hi I have only made single cylinder crankshafts this way, but I had no problems using a propane torch and it cleaned up easily with smooth emery afterwards, as you say cleanliness is very important. I think the intense heat of oxy-acetyline might cause you more problems with distortion and scaling? Ron
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Alan
Part of the e-furniture
Posts: 287
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Post by Alan on Mar 17, 2007 15:57:27 GMT
I made my triple expansion crank with propane. i pinned the bits together, Good fits, not jammed together so the solder cannot penetrate(not to loose either) easy flow 2 and easy flow flux(important)and it worked very well. Cleaned up easily too.
If using oxy-acetalyne use a clean flame and dont go to close.
alan
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Post by chris vine on Mar 17, 2007 17:06:52 GMT
Hi Al,
There is a risk with Oxy acetylene or Oxy propane of getting the flux or solder too hot and burning it. The joint will not then be sound.
If you do use Oxy, keep the direct heat away from the joint and materials.
Propane should be fine as long as you have enough quantity of heat to get the job hot fairly quickly. The flux does not remain active for ever and if you take too long it can go off and, again, dud joint!
Chris.
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Post by Tel on Mar 17, 2007 19:10:37 GMT
Personally, I'd use the O/A. Use the cutting tip and ONLY use the outer envelope of the flame.
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Lurkio
Seasoned Member
Posts: 101
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Post by Lurkio on Mar 17, 2007 21:08:41 GMT
Al,
I would say either process would produce a good job if carried out properly. The deciding factor for me would be....use the O/A at work and get paid while you do it! (Use a slightly carburising flame for silver-soldering).
Lurkio
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