January 2025

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The first month of the New Year was memorable for the weather, and not just the wind but also freezing conditions. The storm of December, compounded by those of January had taken their toll on the casing of our diesel generator. Installed several years ago to provide 240 volt power aboard for welding etc, this ‘Silent’ 11kva set is mounted on a steel frame off the forward deck scuttle and encased in a light steel sheet cocoon. Unfortunately, weakened by the effects of a salty atmosphere, it was no match for the ferocious winds which got under a hinged section and tore it from the main structure. We have decided in due course to replace the whole structure in heavier material, but in the meantime the hinged section has been replaced with one of plywood construction. The very cold snap that this part of the country experienced resulted in the freezing of the domestic fresh water tank located forward of the aft cabin/galley hatch, and despite being lagged, the pipework to the sink below plus the discharge from the sink overside also froze solid. The galley range was quickly lit to start the thawing process and thankfully nothing burst and the electrical discharge pump from the sink survived the ordeal, not forgetting the crew who also needed thawing out! It was not all about bad weather, as the re-painting of the wheelhouse continued on the days the sun put in an appearance and it now looks very smart. Down below the boiler lagging saga continues. As previously reported, this is not a simple job as the lagging is installed in sections to fit between the crinolines. Each foil-covered section is measured and once cut to size the edges have to be sealed with self-adhesive metal tape. Each section is then carefully installed so as not to rip or puncture the covering. Also, we have to contend with the various pipes and valves on the boiler shell, around which the lagging sections have to be sculpted. Continuing below, our volunteer and boilermaker Jack Dibnah crawled into the boiler water space below the two furnaces to replace the combustion chamber supports which were showing signs of corrosion. Pipework modifications necessary to accommodate the replacement General Service Pump were also carried out. With spring (hopefully) round the corner we now move on to plan this year’s activities in conjunction with outstanding works, inspections etc.

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