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New boiler for Levant Tin Mine

Dating back to 1840, the historic winding ‘whim’ engine was built by Harvey & Co of Hayle to power the mine’s 530m-deep Skip Shaft – where two rectangular metal boxes were used to carry copper and tin ores to the surface. Having been a key attraction at the site since its restoration in 1992, the engine fell silent earlier this summer, when the 20-year-old boiler which supplied it with steam broke down.

"We felt that it was absolutely essential to replace the boiler to enable us to operate the engine once again,” said Anthony Power, custodian of Levant Mine. “No matter how impressive it is as a static exhibit, nothing can replace the sight, sound and smell of the engine working on live steam.” With peak tourist season almost upon them, for the team at the mine, timing was critical – but CFB’s quick turnaround of just four weeks ensured that the new energy-efficient steam boiler was commissioned and fully working in time for the Bank Holiday weekend.

“We knew that the client needed the boiler to be installed and commissioned as quickly as possible, so we pulled out all the stops,” said Malcolm Henty, South west sales executive at CFB Boilers. “We were able to do the installation two weeks before the other company who quoted for the job, which meant we could make sure that the bank holiday visitors could see the historic engine working properly.”

Not only did CFB Boilers’ fast work mean that the mine’s engine could be up and running in time for the busiest weekend of the year, but their energy-efficient product meant that the National Trust would be saving money on its oil bill, too. Thanks to a 30% larger steam cavity, and the benefit of four-pass technology (compared to the two-pass design of the old boiler), the 4VT offered a saving of 20% when compared to the fuel consumption of the previous model. “Energy efficiency is really important in this day and age, even when working with an antique steam engine! We’re delighted that the new boiler enables us to run the engine while making cost savings on fuel and improving our CO2 emissions.”

The 4VT Series from CFB is the only boiler in its class to offer four-pass technology for the highest efficiency, plus a 30% larger steam chest for better quality steam. Thanks to its intelligent design, the model can be fired up more quickly than other similar boilers (usually in just 15 minutes), and doesn’t suffer from the problems that have been known to affect other makes after only a few years’ operation, such as the shell failing at the bottom of the cylinder.

Of course, the 4VT hasn’t just been designed with energy and cost efficiency in mind, the boilers are also incredibly practical. For example, the boiler operation is silent and automatic, and all of the controls, including the blowdown, are fitted at the front of the boiler for easy access. The burner – which is located in the top section of many other brands – is mounted in the mid-section of the 4VT, making adjustment and servicing very simple. In addition, the hand holds are not situated within the refractory.

Maintenance is also designed to be simple. Both the internal shell and flue ways can be easily inspected and cleaned throughout their complete circumference, thanks to convenient construction, and the central air inlet limits dust or moisture intake.

Natural gas, propane or oil fired, the 4VT range spans thirteen models, from 6hp to 130hp (with bespoke outputs available upon request). Low water level controls are fitted as standard, and all boilers are mounted on skids and are pumped and wired for easy handling. Complete ‘ready to fire’ packages, with optional feed water systems for simple installation, are also available.

For more information call CFB Boilers on 01255 224500 or visit the website www.steamboilers.co.uk