CFR 49 part 230.31 (b)
Author: Robby Peartree
Date: 10-20-2009 - 20:34
I do not understand this fascination with tube life as the limiting factor of steam locomotive certification when there are provisions for the tubes to remain in place on a 1472 day inspection in CFR 49 part 230.31 (b). A number of locomotives failed suddenly in service due to failure of the boiler barrel. Twenty-six GH &SA employees died due to a barrel failure on a locomotive in a roundhouse. As I read it you remove tubes so you can inspect the entire boiler without obstruction. Any part of a locomotive can fail and it is important that the focus is on the entire machine and not one part.
Respectfully
Robby Peartree