Can I use brass?

[Adam MaraParticipant @adammara]

I have a plan Stationary Engine from the seventies, and am considering it for my first proper build. It specifies using Gunmetal for the Cylinder and steam box but I have suitable brass 'in stock' to do the job, is that OK? I will only be running it on compressed air.

[Adam MaraParticipant @adammara]

Advice for a beginner!

[JasonBModerator @jasonb]

If you are just going to run it on the odd occasion for enjoyment without making it work under load brass will be fine.

[mechman48Participant @mechman48]

…I will only be running it on compressed air…

​It will be fine if you're running it for short periods, just bear in mind to squirt a shot or two of cylinder oil / light hydraulic oil into the inlet, it will run fine,

George.

[JasonBModerator @jasonb]

Cylinder oil, even the light one can be a bit sticky when at room temperature so just a light oil would be best

[Adam MaraParticipant @adammara]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I assume by a light oil 3 in 1 would do the job.

As a matter of interest, I have a gallon tin of 3 in 1 oil, left over from when we closed our ironmongers shop down in 1993, price ? £3.60 !

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