Just getting started in Brisbane Qld.

Hi

As the title says I am just getting my self set up and mistakes are taking place as people said they would but I am making progress. Just getting permission to set up the workshop was a challenge but thats done and i now have the where with all to make something.

However it seems there is a mystery around what metals to use for what components. Should it be stainless steel for connecting rods or mild steel (what type) ? what about cylinders cast iron or brass ? Steel sheet (what type) or Brass for bodywork ? and if its either or then what are the considerations?

There are amazing books with every performance characteristic in tables which frankly are beyond me. Especially when they finally point out that not every supplier uses the same description then they don't always know exactly what type of steel it is they have in stock and don't get me started on where that steel comes from. So just looking for some straight forward simple can't go wrong advice.

Stainless is good for rods but harder to machine and mild steel is just fine and what nearly everybody uses. Cast iron cylinders are cheaper and can take proper piston rings but lubrication is more critical. With bronze, you would use Viton O rings or traditional soft packing like graphited yarn. Sheet steel for most things but brass for tender tanks and side tanks. Brass or stainless for boiler cladding. Steel is cheaper, stronger and takes paint better.

Hi Paul, welcome to the group. (I live in Sydney) There are lots of helpful people in MEW that can help.

I am not sure of what you intend to build but I would recommend that you join a group in your area that has similar interests. Club members may have already made similar projects and are always willing to share their knowledge. Good luck with your hobby.

Regards, Paul

Hi Paul,

I'm in Ipswich (a bit closer than Sydney) and also a relative newbie. i have the benefit of a couple of friends who have been amateur machinists for many years and who can answer most of my dumb questions. Recommend you find a club and get involved, club members are usually very helpful and happy to help out a newcomer with appropriate advice.

Cheers, Geoff P.

Hi Fellow Australians

I live in Melbourne
Its a pity Melbourne to Brisbane is 1657 km, and Melbourne to Sydney is 870km, a bit of a drive.....we should all meet up one day.
There are quite a few Australians that pop in here. I guess we should start a thread for antipodeans.

Regards
John

All our upsidedown friends are welcome.

Hello Paul,

Welcome to the forum, you'll get plenty of good advice here.

Neil

Welcome aboard from a bit further south in Kiwi land. Ian S C