3" SS/Copper bubbler build

[woodduck]

If you've already got one and want to use it I would put it on the boiler that way you will know how close to boil temp you are. And I will admit they do look pretty cool. I guess this would depend on what type you have, I wouldn't put a plastic probe thermometer in there that had to be stuck in with a grommet cause I think that would just be a spot that could cause vapour leaks etc.

[scottyd72]

If you've already got one and want to use it I would put it on the boiler that way you will know how close to boil temp you are. And I will admit they do look pretty cool. I guess this would depend on what type you have, I wouldn't put a plastic probe thermometer in there that had to be stuck in with a grommet cause I think that would just be a spot that could cause vapour leaks etc.

Ah ok yep Tasspirit said the same :handgestures-thumbupleft: . Might be easier for me to weld a stainless threaded nut onto either the lid (it's fairly thin at 0.55mm) or onto the first 3"section as that is below the first bubble plate

[Zak Griffin]

I have a thermometer in my boiler, but only because I had one spare...

[scottyd72]

I have a thermometer in my boiler, but only because I had one spare...

Nice :handgestures-thumbupleft:

I should have some 3" copper pipe this week so I can build the RC this weekend :D
I have to remember to take lots of pics as I go too.

[scottyd72]

Today I have revived my bubbler build and I've started building the reflux condenser today.
I've ordered just about all the parts I still need, then I need to get some more argon gas for the tig welder to finish off the 3 inch tees.

However I'm not sure if I've made my RC shotty the right length. It's copper 3 inch diameter and currently 4 1/4 inch long. I'm planning on using 6 x 19mm copper pipe and possibly put copper mesh in the pipes.

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[db1979]

At that length with that many pipes it shouldn't need any copper mesh. Mine is 85 mm with 5 x 19 mm tubes. The plumbing I'd used didn't help too, much better when I swapped the braided line for 20 mm hose. The braided line is very thin internally and slows the flow right down.

[db1979]

Good on you for getting back to the build :handgestures-thumbupleft:

[scottyd72]

At that length with that many pipes it shouldn't need any copper mesh. Mine is 85 mm with 5 x 19 mm tubes. The plumbing I'd used didn't help too, much better when I swapped the braided line for 20 mm hose. The braided line is very thin internally and slows the flow right down.

Ah ok cool. I'll just use the same garden hose that I use on my LM.

Good on you for getting back to the build :handgestures-thumbupleft:

Thanks DB.

[scottyd72]

Just finished the easy flange for the RC.

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[scottyd72]

Just finished silver soldering the core of the RC.

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[bluc]

Love watching these come to life :handgestures-thumbupleft:

[scottyd72]

Just realised I may have used soft solder with lead in it on my 2" condenser...

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Looks like I'll be desoldering it and sanding it all off and re-solder with the silver solder.

[woodduck]

Bugga! That sucks mate. Just think how good it will be next time with all this practice :))

[scottyd72]

Yeah I know lol.
well I've got time as I have to pay rego and insurance this month then I can go get a new argon cylinder to finish off the SS tee sections (still have to TIG weld in the 2" window flanges into the 3" tees).

[scottyd72]

ok, quick update:

3" RC core is soaking in vinegar, 3" rings for the two easy flanges for each end are done. next step for the RC is to insert the core into a new piece of 3" pipe and slip on the rings then gently bash out the flanges into position, then hard solder it all together.

2" PC (as I had touched it up the other day with soft solder containing lead) has been dismantled so I can sand/file/grind off all the soft solder. Then I'll silver solder it back together after I make a new end plate.

The 3" to 2" copper reducer/180 degree section has been silver soldered together and it's been wet sanded with 480 so far. It needs a careful going over with the grinding disk to clean up each joint.

I've got the shut off valves and associated fittings for the cooling hoses for both condensers.

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[scottyd72]

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[RC Al]

Looking good mate :handgestures-thumbupleft:

Anyone else notice that we don't get true 90° bends on normal pipe fittings? I feel a bit ripped off Lols

[scottyd72]

Thanks RC AI

The overhaul on my PC has begun
Tomorrow I'll trim the ends off the inner pipes to get rid of the lead solder.

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[scythe]

Interesting 2" flange.
Where did you find that?

[bluc]

Think it's just an easy flange with rolled lip :think: