Modern Boiler Construction Methods for the Model Engineer - Boiler welding - Part 1

This is the first in a series of videos covering hobby model engineering boiler construction using modern methods. The first video deals with the complexity of design, and materials and a very high level discussion of what is needed. The best welders understand the design and use of any fabricated assembly long before any welds are started.
Modern Boiler Construction Boiler Construction Methods for the Model Engineer.2022.Model Engineering;228:4686 & 4688

[@bambukouk]

thank you

[@jeffwestbrook9836]

Fantastic content. Looking forward to this series in applying tig to ME stainless boiler design. Doubly so in that you are addressing many of the “gotcha’s” such as SCC, surface prep/cleaning, alloy selection, filler rod material, thermal expansion…etc. Thank you!

[@StuartsShed]

I read your series of articles on stainless steel model boilers and found it informative, interesting and refreshing. I keep hearing a lot of negative views on stainless steel from the model engineer community, mostly from the point of view of corrosion stress failure I suspect. I have an interest in making a stainless-steel boiler for stationary model engines, so I look forward to your next video. I may email you with some questions after that, if you are OK with that?

[@Lukers_tinkering]

Yep, scc is the main factor but should be designed for....

[@fladder1]

Ahh, finally a voice of reason about stainless boilers. I have done some research myself about the subject at one point and came to the same conclusions as you. (Although i haven't done the calculations and infinite analysis) Most resistance I've encountered appears to be twofold; one is the universal gear for the new/unknown. And the second is the fear for the corrosion stainless potentially undergoes while under pressure/heat. Which in my mind is something you could monitor during an inspection. I am really interested in boiler design/building and particularly in stainless. So I'll follow this series close. What software/aids do you use for your boiler designs? Any pointers where i can find the knowledge to do the actual calculations?

[@Lukers_tinkering]

Hi, I use ANSYS but this package is incredibly expensive for a hobby. The simulations require an understanding of element discretization; even using this software you need to choose the correct element type to get accurate results. The calculations are rather complex (coupled thermal structural) and involved, and to the best of my knowledge cannot be done without using numerical methods. I've actually spoken at a few engineering conferences on the topic. Sorry, probably not the answer you looking for.

[@fladder1]

@@Lukers_tinkering thanks for your reply. So, if I would want to design a stainless steel boiler my best option would be to find someone who has a professional understanding of the mathematics involved? (I wouldn't mind the complex calculations) Might not be the answer I was hoping to get, but it might be the answer I needed. Better to get a professional to do the calculations correctly rather than stuffing it up myself in an attempt. Although it is somewhat disappointing to know that the cheaper option of stainless cones with the requirement of finding someone (and probably having to pay that person) to do the necessary calculations. Something tells me that that might offset the costs a fair bit .

[@Lukers_tinkering]

@fladder1 I think it's going to be difficult to find someone with both the academic and practical knowledge to do the calcs for you. I would recommend looking at my boiler designs and provided you keep to the plate sizes and pressure areas you'll be OK. Also, check the article I wrote in the description.