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3.5" Gauge Smokebox

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Ken Bevan10/12/2017 15:59:03
15 forum posts

I have just completed a rolled & silver soldered smokebox for a 3.5" gauge GWR 'City'. There are a couple of minor 'dimps' in the barrel as a result of bending around a wooden former. I'm not happy with these & wish to fill either with a low melting point soft-solder, or a higher melting point such as 'Comsol'. Has anyone any suggestions as to which I should used, i.e would the lower melting point be ok or would it migrate as a result of the temperature of the smokebox?

Another JohnS10/12/2017 16:40:25
842 forum posts
56 photos

I'd think that lower melting point solder would migrate.

Ken - if you are not pleased with it, is it worth making it again?

I say that, because my first Tich boiler was a "learning experience", and I was not happy with it, even though it did pass a hydro test. The second Tich boiler was completed in 11 hours, and has been good for 30+ years.

I don't know what the 'dimps' look like, but you might also find that it takes less time to roll another than to fill and file (and fill and file..) the dimples.

Just my random thoughts - whatever you choose to do will be the right choice.

JohnS.

Clive Brown 110/12/2017 16:53:28
1050 forum posts
56 photos

I wouldn't use LMP soft solder. The melting point will be less than 200 deg. C. and I've read that smokeboxes can reach this sort of figure. Comsol at least, or even try to run in some silver solder if you're not going to re-make as suggested above.

Ken Bevan11/12/2017 09:07:20
15 forum posts

Thanks to you both for your thoughts on the matter. I think you're right John, it's probably better to remake rather than attempt to fill the imperfections. I shall have to ensure to take extra care with the brass in its annealed state this time around. I have used Comsol on a boiler before, but the temperature probably would not be anywhere near what you suggest for the smokebox -so thanks for the info on the temperature Clive.

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