In a message dated 12/02/1999 11:41:25 AM Eastern Standard Time, "hotrains_@_choice.net" writes: > how > was a fire initially started in the firebox of a steam engine? Im sure > it was a slow process and not a favored job but I've always wondered,,, > thanx in advance,,,,Todd out!! I remember reading a description by a fellow who was in charge of firing up a steamer on a tourist line not too long ago. The process is much more involved than one would think. In order to build a fire in the box, an artificial draw must be created with a fan either on the stack or in the firebox. (Of course once steam has been built, this is accomplished with the verturi in the stack.) Then the fire is built pretty much the same as your backyard barbecue, i.e., paper > kindling > coal > more coal > lots more coal. As the fire builds, the water level must be closely monitored... too much water kills the steam, not enough and you need a new crown sheet. Watch the water level glass and the pressure gauge. Once there is enough steam to maintain the draw remove the fan. The whole process takes four to six hours give or take. I wish I could remember where I saw this article because it was very much more detailed than this short synopsis. Any body else remember seeing it? Regards, Bob ------------------------------------------------------------ Visit the erielack photopage at http://el-list.railfan.net ------------------------------
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