Project Update - 5 January 2016

With the training on the module out of the way, work commenced on installing the tubes in 549's boiler. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on your view) most of the team were on leave so this enabled mid week work as well as the normal Saturdays.

Over six work days the team expanded all 93 tubes, slow but steady, no point rushing the job and paying for it later.

We would do them in batches, firstly the tube plate holes required polishing to remove any surface rust followed by removing any contaminants on the external surface of the tubes, this took a fair bit of time in itself. In regards to the expanding, we commenced in the firebox end, this would take the longest time due to measuring the stick out, measuring the tube wall reduction, ensuring the tube doesn't flare immaturely and the shear awkwardness of being in the firebox. This was later followed by the smokebox end.

It was hard work due to the awkwardness of the confined spaces not to mention some bloody hot days thrown in.

All of the team contributed to getting the work done and without the commitment of each of them at different stages over the six days, the work would not have been completed in the professional format that it was. Thanks to John, Kirk, Greg, Andrew, Alex, Jayden & Josh.

Some snapshots of the work in progress.


Alex and Kirk in action

Kirk measuring tube stick out

Onto the top row, Jayden and Kirk

John at the controls, assisted by Jayden

Job complete, all tubes expanded - firebox end

Job complete, all tubes expanded - smokebox end

Next task - Tube beading in the firebox.