[Steam-engine] Wachs boiler update

[HISTMACHRY at aol.com]

Rick,
I really do not want to rain on your parade, and truly wish you success and 
safety with this boiler, so here are some more thoughts.

Yes, what I have outlined can be overwhelming to a newbie, but take it a step 
at a time. A hydro will not indicate thin areas, it is amazing how thin 
pitting can be before leaks show up, and under steam that could have devastating 
results. I have needlescaled right through a firebox sheet on a boiler that was 
in service and there were no signs of leakage in that area, we are talking 
paper thin!

For the lap seam, visual inspection most likely will not reveal the cracks 
that these seams are known for. The cracks, if they are going to occur, are 
caused by the cycling of the boiler ( fire up and shut down) and can start at the 
rivet holes, or along the edges of the plates at the seam. Radiography is not 
that expensive, and as an alternative the lap seam can be inspected with 
ultrasonic test method known as shear wave. I just realized your in Montana, so 
that may change the availability of the examination?? 

The installation of tubes is not that difficult, and yes there is the expense 
of the tubes, at the end of the day you should have a boiler that you have 
made an effort to evaluate and know its condition for the safety of operation.

Where are you in Montana? Take a look at the Alder Gulch #12 in Nevada City, 
that is my rebuild.

Good luck Rick!