THE GOOD OLD DAYS

Editor’s Note: The following article is reprinted from the
October 1985 issue of the National Board BULLETIN, publication of
the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors,
Columbus, Ohio, with permission. Nick Buesch of RR 1, Box 172,
Freeburg, Illinois 62243, sent us the article with the suggestion
that we reprint it to warn engine owners of accidents which still
take place. The names and places of those involved in the described
incident are unknown to us.

The summer and fall seasons always bring forth large numbers of
old steam traction engines and the hobbyists fire up the boilers
for the big county fairs and steam shows scheduled all over North
America. Steam shows are exciting events and attract huge throngs,
reminding us of the good old days. The sounds and distinct scent of
the big steam powered engines are nostalgic. As we watch those old
giants operating once again we are taken back to the days when
these huge tons of steel, rivets and steam plowed fields, threshed
grain, ran sawmills, built early roads or pulled trains. The shrill
sound of the steam whistle still evokes responses in most folks as
it gives just a small display of the awesome power contained within
the boiler portion of the engine. It is this power, if left
unrestrained or uncontrolled, which can cause horrible accidents.
It is vitally important that operators of these boilers are always
aware of the potential dangers and take the necessary actions to
prevent any problems.

As harmless as they may seem to some, steam powered engines did,
still can, and do explode occasionally with devastating force as
evidenced by the photo. This accident occurred at a steam show last
year. The owner and his grandson were killed when the stays, which
were staying the fire box wrapper sheet on the opposite side in the
picture, let go due to their reduction in the cross sectional area
because of corrosion. As the left side of the wrapper sheet tore
away, the ensuing burst of energy caused the huge engine to
cartwheel back on top of the two, crushing them. It was fortunate
that even more were not killed or seriously injured since show
attendance was high and, at various times during the day just prior
to the accident, large groups of people had been standing in close
proximity.

It’s easy to understand why these antique boilers sometimes
explode violently. Most are extremely old, having been built in the
late 1800’s or early 1900’s. Some things like wine and
beautiful women improve with age, however, iron rivets and steel do
not. In fact, the reverse is true and their safety factor
deteriorates in direct proportion to age. The average antique steam
tractor is about 80 years old. Over the years the metal has been
subjected to numerous stress reversals, both thermal and
mechanical, plus various forms of metal fatigue, erosion and
corrosion. While they were sturdily constructed, they weren’t
constructed to last forever.

If these boilers are going to be operated at steam shows, what
are some of the safety precautions that must be taken?

Have each boiler inspected annually by a National Board
Commissioned Inspector. Even hobbyists who have operated boilers of
this type for 50 or 60 years and feel knowledgeable should not act
as inspectors. They are operators, not inspectors.
Training and abilities regarding inspection are vastly different
from operation. Inspections of any kind must always be performed by
qualified individuals. Those holding National Board Commissions
meet this criteria.