johnsmachines

OK.  My non machinist readers will have no idea what I am talking about.  And I suspect that my machinist readers wont either.

I need some precisely machined and measured blocks to set up the soldering for the boiler.  I want them to not suck up my soldering heat (so no metal), and to not stick to my silver solder (so not steel, copper, etc).

How about concrete?  More specifically, aerated concrete.  Hebel.

Look at the pics……  I need a cylinder, about 100mm high and 110mm diameter, which will not absorb heat and not stick to silver solder.

This is a 600x400x75mm Hebel block.   Cost $AUD4.60.  It is part of my forge, but will be replaced easily.

Marked out the bit I want.

So I cut it on the bandsaw.  It is aerated concrete.  Hebel.

Cuts quickly and easily.  Probably not good for the blade.  But we will see.

How accurate is the thickness??   Pretty amazing IMO.  within 0.1mm.  The second measurment is after a quick touch up with emery paper on a flat plate.

And this is the first setup, ready for soldering.   Watch this space.  soldering in 2 days.