The world of model and hobby engineering

Subscribe
The Modelling Hub Logo

The world of model and hobby engineering

Subscribe
Buy Latest Issue

Forums

Help

Register

Log in

Aluminium cylinder, Viton rings

Advert
New Replies
Report Bug
Help/FAQs

Aluminium cylinder, Viton rings

Home › Forums › Help and Assistance! (Offered or Wanted) › Aluminium cylinder, Viton rings

Viewing 7 posts - 1 through 7 (of 7 total)
  • Author
    Posts
  • 4 September 2019 at 11:03 #33449
    BOB BLACKSHAW 1
    Participant
      @bobblackshaw1
      4 September 2019 at 11:03 #427383
      BOB BLACKSHAW 1
      Participant
        @bobblackshaw1

        I've made my small engines with manly aluminium cylinders with viton o rings.

        My next project I hope to run it on steam, so will also make a boiler for it so this will take me some time to do.

        My question is, is aluminium a suitable material for steam.

        Thanks Bob

        5 September 2019 at 08:05 #427512
        David George 1
        Participant
          @davidgeorge1

          Hi Bob what grade is the aluminium. it is possible to hard anodise and PTFE coat but you would have to know what grade as some grades don't work well.

          David

          5 September 2019 at 08:20 #427514
          nigel jones 5
          Participant
            @nigeljones5

            Hi Bob. In a word, no. Definately not a good idea as it oxidises quickly when subject to steam. Your first run will probably be fine but after leaving it standing the bore will oxidise and make subsequent running worse and worse. Personally I would never use O rings as piston rings (I know some do with success) as they have no self lubricating properties, instead I would use graphite yarn for longevity.

            5 September 2019 at 09:06 #427522
            JasonB
            Moderator
              @jasonb

              I've seen several of Stew Hart's aluminium cylindered engines running on steam and they seem fine, just a good oil after use helps. I would not use it for a loco that is going to be doing a lot of work but should be OK on a small stationary engine run for display.

              5 September 2019 at 11:19 #427551
              Ian S C
              Participant
                @iansc

                Rather than O rings, maybe try Teflon plumbers tape. I would use a harder grade of alloy for the cylinder.

                Ian S C

                5 September 2019 at 15:21 #427626
                BOB BLACKSHAW 1
                Participant
                  @bobblackshaw1

                  Thanks for the replies,

                  I will try the graphite yarn or the Teflon tape in future, also its easier for a good fit as O rings the piston groove has to be correct the first time.

                  As for grade of aluminium used,I haven't a clue, as its usually aluminium that has come from a scrap bin from the industrial estates.

                  I was rather fortunate whilst on holiday, a ship yard near by so asked if they had any six inch pipe for a fly wheel, they cut several pieces 20mm wide, and help your self from the scrap bin..

                  As for the cylinder on my new engine to be made I have bronze ,cast iron and aluminium, bronze I have found difficult to drill 3mm holes 25mm deep as it jambs' up. The cast iron I've used before and have had rust issues, that's why I've used aluminium.

                  What grade of aluminium do I need, or is cast iron or bronze the best alternative .

                  Bob.

                • Author
                  Posts
                Viewing 7 posts - 1 through 7 (of 7 total)
                • Please log in to reply to this topic. Registering is free and easy using the links on the menu at the top of this page.

                Latest Replies
                Report Bug
                Code of Conduct
                Help & FAQs
                Advert

                Latest Replies

                Home › Forums › Help and Assistance! (Offered or Wanted) › Topics

                Viewing 25 topics - 1 through 25 (of 25 total)
                Viewing 25 topics - 1 through 25 (of 25 total)

                View full reply list.

                Advert

                Latest Issue

                Subscribe
                Buy Latest/Back Issues

                Newsletter Sign-up

                Latest Replies