Blower pipe V blower ring.

I have noticed how some locos have a simple blower pipe (mine included), others a blower ring. I was wondering what the advantages and disadvantages of the two systems are? A few random thoughts come to mind.

Pipe is relatively easy to build?

Ring truer to prototype?

Pipe less prone to blockages (wider nozzle)?

Does a ring make more efficient use of steam, do you get more draught from a given steam volume?

Has anyone substituted one for the other, if so why, and was it an ‘improvement’?

Looking forward to the forums thoughts

Martin

From what I have seen a slower ring usually has nozzles that can be unscrewed making it easier to experiment with various nozzle sizes.

Like the blast nozzle, you want the blower holes concentric to the chimney so the blower will be more efficient, using less steam, and yes, more draught from a given volume. It is not difficult to make a blower ring with 3 or 4 holes. I use the rotary table and 1 mm holes. Some angle them so they point at the choke of the petticoat which probably also helps. I read an article somewhere on hole sizes in the blower ring and what was optimal but I can't recall where.

Many thanks chaps - I think the best thing is to make a ring, perhaps with nozzles which can be swapped and give it a try. Its not at all difficult to go back to the pipe if there is no obvious improvement. I will start with 1mm holes.

Martin