Steam Department

A brief update courtesy of Phil as I was not at the steam shop this weekend.

On 1630 a major milestone is achieved.  The firebox corner that was the cause of her withdrawl from service is now completely restored.

·         The stays were fully fitted, cut to length and then formed with the air hammer.  They can now be seen fully fitted into the patch and ready for service;

Completed patch from the outside

and from the inside

·         Jason instructed Collin, Phil and others in the use of the gauge testing equipment.  The boiler pressure gauges were successfully tested and can now be finally fitted in the cab;

·         Phil and Jerry carried out a tricky "fishing exercise" and managed to extract two ferrules that had dropped into the bottom of the boiler barrel during tube fitting.  Not absolutely essential but a great deal better that they are not loose in the bottom of the boiler;

·         Work is progressing on refitting the remaining flexible stay caps were loose following  removal for inspection and cleaning of the stays;

·         Brian, Paul and David made good progress on stripping the air tanks.

Air tanks nearly ready to paint

Meanwhile Bob is starting to install the ducting to provide a permanent power supply to the planer.

.............. and lastly a reminder.  IF YOU DO NOT ALREADY HAVE YOUR TICKETS FOR THE STEAM DEPARTMENT BENEFIT next Sunday (14th) at the San Filippo Estate- THERE ARE STILL A FEW AVAILABLE.  They can be booked from the link the IRM website.  Hope to see you there.

Nigel