Boiler joint leaks
Boiler joint leaks
(OP)
I am installing a very old vertical wood fired steam boiler, probably a 1940s/50s Cochran. It is of riveted construction.
In the process of carrying out a cold pressure test some of the riveted plate joints have been found to be leaking (at abt 5 bar pressure). Weld repair is not an option.
Any suggestions on how the leaks can be stemmed?
Thanks
Amkibunja
In the process of carrying out a cold pressure test some of the riveted plate joints have been found to be leaking (at abt 5 bar pressure). Weld repair is not an option.
Any suggestions on how the leaks can be stemmed?
Thanks
Amkibunja





RE: Boiler joint leaks
RE: Boiler joint leaks
The rivets are rusty and flaking, as is the rest of the boiler, though there are no visible cracks or extreme deterioration. The boiler is located in a cold highland area (by tropical standards) so water room temperature may hover around 10 deg C.
Will attempt to caulk the joints. Hope it doesn't increase the stress on them.
Thanks for the info
RE: Boiler joint leaks
RE: Boiler joint leaks
If the leak is on the edge of the plate. then you can cold stake the edge of the flange. Chicopee touched on this. The method is to take a rounded edge chisel and drive it parallel to the plate into the edge of the overlapping plate about 1/3rd of the thickness up. The idea is to make a fish tailed appearance to the edge of the plate and force this material tight to the underlying plate. \--------
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Before you do this you should sand blast with a fine grit to at least grey metal state.
This way you will uncover any rust pockets that will stop your caulking operation, before you spend time trying to do it.
B.E.
You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.
RE: Boiler joint leaks
Looks like I will have to do a sketch.
B.E.
You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.
RE: Boiler joint leaks
/-----
edge like this.
B.E.
You are judged not by what you know, but by what you can do.