17 Mar
2012
17 Mar
'12
8:33 p.m.
fre 2012-03-16 klockan 09:42 -0500 skrev Doc:
A couple of points:
If I were doing this the first question would be "Will you run the
machine or is it for display?"
The fact that three legs are broken suggests that if this is going to
be a working exhibit, any repair is likely to fail unless it's
reinforced. If it's going to see any serious use, I'd build a stand for
it. If it's going to see serious use and you really want it original,
have the base recast. Not Cheap.
No offense to anyone, but ignore all the list-members' suggestions
about fluxes, MIG, arc rod, etc. "Cast iron" covers a LOT of alloys,
and by the time that unit was built it's probably actually cast steel.
The welder doing the repair should be able to identify the metal and
suggest the right process.
Finally, ask around a bit if you're going to have the cast base
repaired. If you want a structurally sound repair, you need someone
with specialized skills. I was a welder for quite a few years in the
'70s & '80s and I know just enough about cast-metal repair that I
wouldn't touch this. A welder or blacksmith who specializes in cast
work should have no trouble with it.
If you go for a repair the welder should ask for and get an sample of
the stand analysed.
IF it is good cast steel he/she should be able to mend it into something
not far from NEW ! this is very much depending on material.
Steel with good welding properties can be very good and whats more : old
cast steel has as good or better properties than new stuff BUT the
welder must know his work.
In my other hobby, we had a trouble with crack in the spokes on six
locomotive wheels. Motala Verkstad did cut out all the cracks and
rebuild the material with welds.
The wheels was cast in 1911.
The repairs cost 180 000 :- SeK or around 20 000 Euro.