It should be understood that machine riveted seams in steam boilers are superior to hand made seams, as the machine thoroughly upsets the rivet and brings the two sheets in such close contact as to produce friction between the sheets at the lap, which of itself is an element of strength.
Boilers do not improve by standing idle; they will rust very rapidly.
Never use sharp chisels to cut the scale from boiler plate, as the cutting of the plate does more harm than good. Use only a light hammer.
In patching a boiler be careful not to make a pocket in which sediment may collect to cause another injury to the sheet and never put a steel patch upon an iron boiler as the two metals expanding unequally will induce trouble.
Never forget to allow for expansion when running long lines of steam pipe, whether for heating or power, as the neglect of this precaution leads to the formation of immense crooks or bends in the line of pipe wonderful to behold. There must be a slip joint somewhere in long lines of steam piping, unless expansion is allowed for.
Valves stick on their seats because they are frequently shut when cold, and when heated by the steam the valve stem becomes lengthened, and presses the valve hard into the seat.
Geiser Traction Engine—Right Side.
GEISER TRACTION ENGINE.