BITS ON BOILERS

(Page 2 of 2)

January/February 1975
Fred M. Freschette 
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Shut the top water column valve off. Also shut off the gauge glass valves. Open the bottom water column valve, then blow down the water column with the drain valve. Then reverse this procedure with the gauge glass valves still shut off. If there is both a good powerful flow from the drain valve, this will tell you the column pipes are clear. Then open both valves and your water column is under pressure. Now open the drain valve on the water column and open the top gauge glass valve and there should be a heavy flow of steam. Close that valve and open the bottom gauge glass valve and there should be a heavy flow of water and steam. Now close the drain valve and open both gauge glass valves and you know your column is in safe operating condition. However, if there is a blockage when any valve is opened then immediately determine what it is and have it fixed or shut the engine down unless it is equipped with tri cocks in this case and an experienced operator will have no trouble maintaining the water. Remember boilers will not explode by themselves. They need the help of someone careless or inexperienced and who will not ask. It is no crime to be inexperienced, but it is a pity if one will not ask and learn. Even the smartest man in the world, only came his intelligence thru watching, asking and learning. I will also say it is a pity if someone young wishes to learn and an older person will not take the time to help him. Let's keep boilers and operators as safe as possible.

RELATED CONTENT

I have had eight different traction engines and enjoyed repairing and rebuilding them. At present I own a 1920 J. I. Case, 40 hp s Ohio tested, butt strap boiler, 175 psi., Alberta government certificate. This engine is like new, even the water tender and coal breakers are original and have no leaks.

My wife owns a 16x48 hp Double Simple 1916 Rumel steamer. This has a butt strap Ohio std. boiler 175 psi., Alberta government certificate. This engine is also like new. It even has the straw chute for firing with straw. It is a lovely engine to operate.

Well, watch your water Fellows, and the best to all of you.

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