Thanks for asking for the update. We have been remiss in publicizing news on the boiler work.
In short, the bridge has left us with little time to work on 10’s boiler. The current step is flanging the back head. This has proven challenging as a lot of material must be compressed in an exacting manner. The machine has plenty of power- however as we have proceeded we’ve identified a series of special jigs we’ve had to fabricate in order to force the material to take the desired shape.
The typical routine is that about once per month (or less, w Victorian Christmas in December), we get a day or so where weather, tractor availability, and other projects allows us to focus. We flange, make some progress, note a detail which requires attention (usually a modification to our toggle follower jig), and rather than rush it and hurt the machine or workpiece, we set it aside.
The back head is near completion, though I want it to be at least 25 degrees before working on it, along with all the other stars being in line.
After the back head, it’s the throat sheet. We also plan to begin fitting up the inner firebox later this winter. We have maintained tight communication and oversight from BRV every step of the way. We still intend to hit 10’s boiler hard in 2018, even with the Mountain work ahead.
I have been worried about the lack of member and public information releases- I do sincerely apologize.
Happy New Year,
Jason
