Blower pipe V blower ring.

[Half centreParticipant @halfcentre]

I have noticed how some locos have a simple blower pipe (mine included), others a blower ring. I was wondering what the advantages and disadvantages of the two systems are? A few random thoughts come to mind.

Pipe is relatively easy to build?

Ring truer to prototype?

Pipe less prone to blockages (wider nozzle)?

Does a ring make more efficient use of steam, do you get more draught from a given steam volume?

Has anyone substituted one for the other, if so why, and was it an ‘improvement’?

Looking forward to the forums thoughts

Martin

[Half centreParticipant @halfcentre]

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[Bob RodgersonParticipant @bobrodgerson97362]

From what I have seen a slower ring usually has nozzles that can be unscrewed making it easier to experiment with various nozzle sizes.

[Simon CollierParticipant @simoncollier74340]

Like the blast nozzle, you want the blower holes concentric to the chimney so the blower will be more efficient, using less steam, and yes, more draught from a given volume. It is not difficult to make a blower ring with 3 or 4 holes. I use the rotary table and 1 mm holes. Some angle them so they point at the choke of the petticoat which probably also helps. I read an article somewhere on hole sizes in the blower ring and what was optimal but I can't recall where.

[Half centreParticipant @halfcentre]

Many thanks chaps – I think the best thing is to make a ring, perhaps with nozzles which can be swapped and give it a try. Its not at all difficult to go back to the pipe if there is no obvious improvement. I will start with 1mm holes.

Martin

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