Grotty Jobs

11 July 2008

Copyright © Geoff Gauntlett 2008

"Wee" Frank wrestling with one of the fusible plugs.

The fusible plug is a device to prevent serious damage occurring to the boiler if it runs short of water.

The plug consists of the brass body with a hole drilled up the middle. The hole is filled with lead. The plug is inserted into a threaded hole in the firebox crown. If the boiler runs short of water the lead will melt. This gives an indication to the crew that they have got a problem and helps to prevent the pressure becoming excessively high.

Unfortunately the lead also burns away slowly during normal operation - so at each washout - after approx 28 working days somebody has to crawl into the firebox and change the two plugs.

Do you still think that working with steam engines is all fun and glory ??