blowdown chemicals?

[steamingspud]

I've heard alot about using chemicals in engine water for the health of the boiler, associated with blowdowns. I've no idea on the concept, nor where to get the chemicals. Any feedback?

[Harlock]

www.steamenginelube.com/

You want LSB-8000 boiler treatment, a small amount goes in the tender water supply. It helps prevent buildup on the interior surfaces of the boiler, I believe by adjusting the pH level of the water so the particulates don't stick and bond to the metal.

Also they have the Green Valvet cylinder oil, which is a custom mix of goo that will withstand high temperature steam in the cylinders and still stay around.

When you 'blow down' the boiler, you open a valve at the bottom-rear of the boiler, which 'blows out' any gunk that has accumulated at the lowest point of the boiler, the water legs and mud-ring around the firebox. If you have seen a full size steam engine suddenly emit a large blast of steam from below or just in front of the cab, that's what they're doing. At Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton, CA., they always blow down at the end of a run over the mill pond, and sometimes at other locations while running.

The steam from a blowdown is actually quite cool, as it expands so rapidly in the air it loses tons of energy the moment it hits ambient pressure.

There are many opinions on how often to or not to blow down a scale live steam engine. Some people do not like to do it very often because they say it stresses the boiler, much like bringing up a fire too quickly from dead cold. Others like to do it every day at the end of a run to make sure the boiler stays clean.

The consequences of a corroded boiler include poor firing due to poor heat transfer through the buildup, and plugging up of sight glasses and valves, which could lead to a dangerous situation. That is why it is always important to blow down your sight glasses and periodically check valves for blockage.

A good way to prevent buildup on a smaller locomotive is to use distilled or R.O. Water. (reverse osmosis water) Both have had the majority of particulates removed from them already and are relatively neutral. This is only practical for small 3/4" or 1" scale boilers. To bring your own water for a 1 1/2" scale or larger boiler would involve a small tank truck depending on how much you plan to run that day.

This is what I know from reading and from a bit of off and on steaming experience. If anyone else wants to chime in, feel free.

[GoldenSpike53]

Actually, I have read that distilled water is harder on the boiler (potentially) than untreated water because the pH takes it to the alkaline side. I don't know about reverse osmosis water; I know it's supposed to be all but about 2% pure. I drink water from an R-O filter, but I'd hate to have to get boiler water from it!

The LBS-8000 is really the best bet. It keeps the solids suspended in the water so they blow out of the boiler when you blow it down.

Good luck!

Dale Dennis