Scotch Boiler

[racerfrank]

I am interested in talking to a ASME builder that could build a Dryback Scotch Marine boiler , sized for a TinyPower M twin , and possibly a smaller engine running an alternator.

Can anyone recommend a builder in PA or surrounding states??

Thanks in advance.

Frank

[fredrosse]

There are a few ASME Code boiler manufacturers in PA. A dryback Scotch pressure vessel is fairly simple, same as a simple VFT without a wet leg, but with one big furnace tube and several smaller fire tubes. The internet (ASME Website) will provide a list of all manufacturers with an "S" stamp (Power Boilers), which is what you need for any boiler over 15 PSI. You will be looking at $10,000 to $20,000 to have that boiler designed and built with the ASME Code requirements.

The VFT in the Margaret S. (20 square feet heat transfer surface) was put together by Columbia Boiler in Pottstown PA, and they welded the boiler together, did the paperwork and put an ASME stamp on it for $900 in 2010. I had to do the ASME Code design, procure all the Code Specified materials (about $1500), get all the material certifications, do all the metal cutting and preparation for fabrication by the ASME Code manufacturer. The labor I had to put in would amount to several thousand dollars at nominal mechanic's wages, but for me this was somewhat a labor of love, I just like to make things in metal. The ASME code rules have evolved over many years, and it is a good idea to use this knowledge if possible.

The scale live steam locomotive community also has several boiler manufacturers (non-ASME Code) that might provide your boiler at a lower price, but you should be cautious about the design and fabrication. The hobby rail live steam websights will provide guidence here. I have seen several of them where the manufacturer claims that the design would meet ASME, but I clearly see violations of the ASME Code rules all over the place. However many hobby locomotive boilers are well made and function reliably. Others are frightful amature work.

[racerfrank]

I don't know if I'm up for doing the design. I'm not even sure what size boiler I need. I could most likely get the materials and paperwork required as long as I know what I need and I could (within the limits of resources available) do the machining and prep work.

Frank

[fredrosse]

Frank, did you get the message (PM or e-mail) I sent?

Fred Rosse

[racerfrank]

yes I did reply sent