Posted by Paul Boland on January 12, 2000 at 15:42:17:
I have three Springfield chain grate coal fired watertube boilers that were manufactured in Springfield, Illinois in 1949. I am looking for a source of handhole cover plates for the steam generating bank. The plates are cast iron, approx. 8.25"x8.25" with radiused corners, and are 1.375"thick. The plates have a 1"-8UNC threaded stud to secure them in the sinuous header. They weigh 11.0lbs.
Springfield Boiler went out of business many years ago, and I have been unable to find a source for these plates. If anyone knows of a used equipment dealer who might be a source for these please e-mail me with their name and address. Also, if I have to have these cast new and machined, any advice as to a source of this service would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for your help; it's a challenge to keep my old Springfield's running, but they are too well built to replace!
Paul Boland
Henneman Raufeisen Engineering
1605 South State St.
Champaign, IL
61820
ph. (217) 359-1514