February 6, 2009

Progress on frame & cylinders

A new smoke box bottom has been fabricated.  Additional trial assembly of pistons & linkages is measured to determine placement of the cylinder on to the frame.

New smoke box bottom was rolled from 1/2" plate to fit onto the curve machined from the cylinder-saddle.  The initial window cutout is for the exhaust stand.

Tyler Poss is grinding the torch cut window for exhaust stand.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
New smoke box bottom rolled on diameter to new cylinder saddle.  The inside liner is used to add strength to the floor of the smoke box where it is attached to the cylinder saddle.
 
Steel arc segments are tack welded in place and combined with turnbuckles to  keep the smoke box on diameter when it is fitted and welded to old upper section of the boiler smoke box by Historic Machinery Services

 
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
New smoke box bottom at first fit to saddle.

Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
Showing smoke box fit at saddle.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
New smoke box bottom in position on saddle.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
Rear view
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
New 2 inch square bar rolled to fit smoke box. Holes will be drilled in it to secure front door.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
   
Piston rods were lapped with grinding compound the to crossheads to inspect contact area of taper fit. Blue was applied to each surface to make inspection of contact area easier.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
Piston rod and crosshead assembled to measure length. This combined with main rod length and location of cylinder center line will determine position of piston at each end of the stroke with cylinder heads in place. Cylinder heads are currently being measured for placement in the cylinder bores.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
Wrist pins are applied for a test fit.  This should be a tight taper fit

 
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation
Lance measuring rod brass bores in rods.
Photo: Steam Operations Corporation