The Iron Age 1936-09-24: Vol 138 Iss 13

SEPTEMBER 24, 1936 Scientists use the sphere for greatest Other Form Strong resistance pres- sure, i.e., for bath- osphere, strato- sphere balloons etc, etc. Nature invented the sphere—the strongest form— but New Departure made steel, incredibly hard and tough. The New Departure Mfg. Bristol, Connecticut. S he p QA Q Lod \ Yer 4 e REPUBLIC >~ the notebooks Republic metallurgists...in the records Re- Research literally thousands notes and reports that come under the heading, “Economies Application.” Some these notes are extremely brief: that cus- tomer adopt our new Series 3100 steel instead the analysis now using.” Other cases require pages summarize the intensive study product, its design, production, heat treatment and other factors. But, every instance under “Economies Application,” some steel consumer has lowered his costs through the adoption steel tailored meet his needs. Perhaps Republic Metallurgists can help you reduce costs. outline your problem will not obligate you. Write Department IA. 2—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 THE IRON AGE, published every Thursday the CHILTON CO., Chestnut 56th Sts., Philadelphia, Pa. Entered second class mattet November 1932, the Post Office Philadelphia under Act March 1879. $6.00 year S., Canada $8.50, Foreign $12.00. Vol. 138, No. =, at j J : = & i FRITZ FRANK President J. H. VAN DEVENTER Editor Cc. E. WRIGHT A. I. FINDLEY Managing Editor Editor Emeritus Machinery Editor Art Editor Metallurgical Editor Associate Editors Resident District Editors Washington Chicago Cleveland Detroit Pittsburgh Editorial Correspondents London, England Cincinnati Boston CHESTNUT AND 56TH STREETS, PHILADELPHIA, PA. Hamburg, Germany Milwaukee San Francisco SANDERSON ASA ROUNDTREE, JR. ALLISON Sales Offices Toronto, Ontario Birmingham, Ala. Newark, St. Louis Buffalo 24, 1936 The Outlook for Business Steel Castings Move Extruding Chevrolet Motor Valves................... Bonneville Sets Stage for Pacific Industry.......... Raiiroad Situation Indicates Large Purchases........... CHILTON COMPANY (Incorporated) Copyright 1936 Chilton Company (Inc.) Executive and Publication Offices, Chestnut and 56th Sts., Philadelphia, Pa. BAUR, General Advertising Manager DIX, Manager Reader Service C. A. MUSSELMAN, President FRITZ FRANK, Executive Vice-President Member, Audit Bureau Circulations ADVERTISING STAFF FREDERIC STEVENS Vice-Pesident Member, Associated Business Papers Emerson Findley, 621 Union Cleveland stri B. L. Herman, Chilton Bldg., Chestnut & 36th JOSEPH Indexed the Industrial Arts Index. Philadelphia, Published every Thursday. Subscrip- H. K. Hottenstein. 802 Otis Bid GEORGE GRIFFITHS, tion Price: United States and Pos- Peirce Lewis, 7310 Woodward Detroit EVERIT sessions, Mexico, Cuba, $6.00; Can- ada, $8.50, including duty; Foreign Ober, 239 39th St., New ERNEST HASTINGS, 12.00 year. Single cents. Robinson, 428 Park Pittsburgh WILLIAM BARBER, Treasurer Cable Address, ‘‘Ironage, Warren, Box 81, Hartford, Conn. JOHN BLAIR MOFFETT, Secretary natter 7 2% aw & { nv — | — \ “sf, — shop, mill and mine tools have resist frequent re- lentless battering. the kind jobthat calls for Bethlehem Omega Tool Steel. The extra toughness and strength needed for every kind rough-and-tumble service are built into that enable this Bethlehem product stand and take under conditions that would quickly break down ordinary steels. This super shock-resistance makes Omega logical and dependable choice for use pneumatic and hand chisels, beading and calking tools, rivet sets and busters, black- smith tools and punches. Omega highly efficient material for shear blades. Just give idea the stamina Bethlehem Omega Tool Steel—it can heat-treated develop the unusually high tensile strength pounds per square inch and unnotched-charpy value 121 foot pounds (Rockwell Hardness C58) can obtained. Drawing slightly higher temperature results still greater toughness with only slight reduction tensile strength 320,000 pounds per square inch. Because Bethlehem Omega Tool Steel re- sponds wider temperature range than carbon tool steel, well suited use readily between 1850 deg. and 1950 deg. Omega requires expensive heat- treating equipment. Other Bethlehem Tool Steels, produced meet specific requirements, handle other tool steel tasks with the same degree efficiency shown Omega its particular field. gh | | | 4 d STEEL THE IRON SEPTEMBER 24, 1936 ESTABLISHED 1855 Vol. 138, No. The Outlook for Business USINESS prophecy hazardous any time and particularly when embraces long-range view under the uncertainties that prevail today. Yet the outlook for could charted with some degree assurance natural forces re- covery were permitted have full sway unhampered the shackling influences national Administration bent upon governmental control industry. Confining prognostication for next year the steel industry and those major lines upon which depends for its prosperity, much satisfaction could derived from the picture the clouds the horizon were dispelled. foreign war the return the New Deal Administration would definitely alter the views now held prosperous 1937. Our influence over the European situation limited, but well-informed American electorate can restore domestic confidence its action the polls November. Under favorable influences politically many industries would make rapid progress toward degree prosperity that would solve greatly minimize the unemployment situation. The automobile industry, for example, planning for output 5,000,000 cars and trucks, which would record, barring 1929. The railroads the country would probably embark upon the largest rehabilitation program years. Building con- struction, particularly private work, would greatly stimulated. The public utilities, removed from fear hostile legislation and governmental persecution, would engage long-deferred improvements. And investment capital, which now prefers absurdly low interest rates with comparative safety the uncertainties the present Admin- policies, would come out hiding. What has business fear? President Roosevelt his recent public addresses has implied the necessity further Federal control over industry and agriculture; the alliance between the Adminis- tration and organized labor raises apprehension that success the organizing large industries would bring renewed demand for modified NRA with control over production, wages, hours and working conditions; there will almost certainly further attempt impose 30-hr. week industry, which economists have declared would ruinous. How can these and other clouds the business horizon removed? Gov- ernor Landon has said, restoring confidence Administration Washington and deciding that business and industry are free from the shackles govern- ment dictation and WRIGHT Managing Editor, The Age 4 > q 4 | i As | | | sits ‘3 26—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 RAYMOND COLLIER Secretary, Steel Founders’ Society America THERE has been great deal loose talk about welded structures replacing castings. Quite number engineers who have had only limited experience with steel castings have come the conclusion, based upon hearsay and the exaggerated statements over-enthusiastic welding, that the days the foundry are numbered. Well informed welding engineers well steel foundrymen and their customers know that this not the case. They realize that welded constructions steel foundings both have their respec- struction LEFT ALVE BODY. In- tegral cast steel con- economical method making these cated assemblies. tive fields which they may ex- pect maintain their respective positions. They also recognize intermediate zone lying between the two industries where each may prove the complement the other. There are relatively few cases where there much doubt which method production the more economical employ. The basic limitations each process usually make such decisions rela- tively easy. the borderline cases, frequently found that the joining castings structural shapes welding the logical solution. illustrate the fact that there are certain structures that very definitely call for casting, sub- mit few photographs more less typical what the engineer can obtain from the foundry. each compli- - ys | | J 3 | } the examples shown, imagine the make-ready and the extensive welding per unit would required fabricate these shapes the weld shop. Clearly these structures are best suited production the foundry more than limited few are, some day, will needed. The examples shown are typical literally tens thousands de- signs which have written all over them the fact that they can economically produced any ap- preciable quantity only the steel steel castings have had long record continuous service with- out failure. The production steel castings has been increasing during the past three years. industry can hardly considered decadent which sold approximately $53,000,- LEFT NTEGRAL Cast Steel Grat- ing. fabricating method other than casting lends itself low cost production this item. AST Steel Jacketed Elbow cut through show in- tegral structure. typical cast- 000 worth its prodicts 1935; which employed over billion labor during the same year; and which carries its payrolls some 24,000 employees. Steel castings are being used increasing volume because they are tough and can “stand the gaff.” Where critically stressed members under dynamic load exist, there you will nearly always find steel casting work. The fact that the designer and engineer have such wide range physical and me- chanical properties choose from due the various steels obtainable through alloying and differential heat-treating ings particularly attractive, since specifications can drawn for the material best suited the particu- lar application. RIGHT ing job. THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936—27 \\ | NEALEY American Gas Association THE inlet and exhaust valves for the Chevrolet engine are made the Flint, Mich., plant extruding hot dies. The steel comes round bars and slugs the right thickness for extruding and are cut from these. The steel analysis fol- lows: Carbon 0.40-0.50, manganese 0.30-0.50, silicon 3.00-3.50, chro- mium 8.00-10.00 and phosphorous and sulphur 0.025. Stock for inlet valve in. diameter while that for the exhaust valve less in. This stock heated 1500 deg. F., and 15/16-in. slugs cut off shears and smoothed tumbling barrels. They are then reheated 2000 deg. and ex- truded and restruck ton punch press equipped with two punches and one die. 28—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 Heating accomplished bat- tery slot type gas fired furnaces consisting steel cases lined with refractory and fire brick. Each about ft. all dimensions, sets 3-ft. legs and heated with two gas burners, one located the back and the other one end. automatic temperature control con- sists potentiometer actuating solenoid valve the gas supply line the burners. This valve has high and low setting and and off the furnace heat below above the instrument setting. shelf the front each fur- nace aid handling the work while hood and perforated air pipe, just above the slot, removes most the escaping heat that would otherwise adversely affect the working conditions. extruding, rolling and straighten- ing, the valves are annealed counter-flow aas fueled furnace shown below. Then they are burred and ground finish. There are six presses and the furnaces and presses are arranged two long rows with aisle be- tween. The heaters keep the fur- naces charged and pass the hot slugs the press operators. The extruded valves are tumbled tumbling barrel, reheated ap- proximately 1300 deg. and cut exact length punch press. Rolled roll threader and bench straightened the valves are now an- nealed. Counter-flow Furnace Gas Fueled The annealing furnace the counter-flow type, L-shaped and gas-fired. used arms, valves ard starter ring gears. The verti- cal heating chamber ft. wide ft. long ft. high while the heat transfer chamber horizontal chamber ft. high, 17% ft. long and the same width. The side walls and arch the heat- ing chamber and the side walls im- mediately under the heating ing backed with in. refrac- | a | | { | | ° | | tory insulating brick. zontal portion the heat transfer chamber lined with in. in- sulating brick while the floor in. refractory insulating brick. The complete unit encased with steel plate shell reinforced and supported structural steel. The drive frame and base, also structural steel, built integral with the furnace frame and shell. The conveyor consists two heavy nickel chrome alloy chains connected every in. alloy rods in. diameter) upon which the work hangs. Each rod projects in. the outside each chain. The flywheel these in. pro- jections while baskets and hang- plates are sus- pended from the rods, between the chains, means hooks. The baskets for the rocker arms are in. wide 13% in. long and are cast alloy. The hanger plates for the valves are high, are slotted carry 196 valves each. The convey- drive consists power motor. The furnace fired gas burners, each side located two vertical rows the vertical section. These are divided between two automatic temperature controls consisting thermocouples and po- tentiometers actuating valves the gas supply lines the burners. The work is, loaded onto and removed from the con- veyor the open end the hori- zontal section. The annealing tem- perature 1480 deg. and charts temperature variation both zones are maintained recording pyrometers. The capacity this unit 2000 lb. work per hour made 800 lb. rocker arms, 200 lb. valves and 240 starter ring gears. When cool, the head the valve burred disk grinder and the accomplished gas fired furnaces shown the left. After the slugs have attained the correct temper- ature, they are passed the extruding presses the right. HEVROLET motor valves are extruded from bar slugs the Flint, plant. The methods employed this interesting process are described the author this article. stem bench straightened and given three grindings three separate centerless grinders. The seat then finish ground Fitchburg grinder, the stem finish ground length rotary grinder, the groove cut special grooving machine and the stem finally finish ground centerless grinder. This completes the job. IRON AGE, September 24, 1936—29 EDWIN HODGE Consulting Geologist—North Pacific Division, Engineers This the second article series three which the author outlines the possibilities ferroelectric smelting the Pacific Coast. The preced- ing article dealt with potential demand the Coast Area for iron and steel products. con- cluding chapter will show the available sources limestone, magnesite, chromite and other materials. The first article ap- peared The Iron Age Sept. The surplus investment capi- tal seeking new outlets should consider the Lower Columbia River Valley for the following reasons: (1) Probably the “cheapest elec- tric energy tidewater the United States” will available. (2) Growing industries will not limited, because the potential reserves million horsepower. (3) Source raw materials and most market can reached plant located tidewater within few miles the power plant. (4) located the center 30—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 the Pacific Coast market—Alaska Mexico, and nearer miles and cheaper cost trans-Pacific markets than the older centers production. (5) Natural low routes reach the inland market. (6) The Columbia River affords the only major harbor entrance the 800 miles coastline between San Francisco and Puget Sound. The proposed tidal industrial area includes the junction the Wil- liamette and Columbia Rivers, the 110 miles from the ocean thereto and miles the river the Bonneville Dam, which the head tide water the Columbia River. Adjoining are numerous smaller streams and inlets. Ad- jacent are broad level tracts land. The entrance the tidal area unusually safe and for 120 miles inland has depth mean low water from ft. large supplies raw materials that have not been competitive market. (8) Returning wheat and lumber ships will cheaper carriers for raw supplies. ports are three times the imports and the foreign cargoes cleared are six times those en- tered. (9) The Pacific Empire, comprising all those lands bor- dering the Pacific Ocean and having Pacific Coast two-thirds the world’s popula- tion, gaining commercial im- portance. Material Supplies Scrap. Apparently the two rea- sons why the Pacific Coast has been compelled import more than 1,000,000 tons ferrous products the type that might produced locally (1) the high cost pig iron, and (2) the necessity us- ing large amount scrap. The present consumption the Pacific contrast with the national usage terious effects the phosphorus, sulphur and rust and the high cost smelting, the scrap priced. There will available 1,- 400,000 tons scrap. the addition one million tons the View downstream side Powerhouse sub-structure. RAZ | > —- Stage for Ore and Coke Resources present production will require 600,- 000 tons new metal from ores. Iron Ores. (a) The iron ores the deposits recommended this report are higher grade than those used the nation whole. They average over per cent metallic iron. Hence, the above basis, there will needed more than million tons ore year, more than 3000 tons day. Hence the figure 1000 tons day requirement for cost this report conservative. (b) There are many deposits iron ore the western part the Americas. Some these deposits are large but undeveloped and may become available few years after iron and steel industry estab- lished. All such deposits have been located, considered, and are de- scribed the report. Progress photograph Feb. 1936. (c) Proven deposits within eco- nomic transportation range are the following: (1) Kasaan Peninsula, Alaska, mag- netite ore per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, semi-self fluxing, phur and copper, several million tons, three months produce, 1000 miles water carriage, cost delivered $4.14 $5.08 ton. (2) Louise, Texada and Vancouver islands, magnetite, 60-63 per cent me- tallic iron, Bessemer, semi-self fluxing, moderate sulphur and copper, several million tons, three months produce, 710 and 440 mile water haul, cost de- livered $4.50 $4.15 ton. (3) Iron Mountain, Washington County, Idaho, hematite, magnetite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, three million tons, one year produce, 420 miles rail haul, cost delivered $4.70 a ton. (4) Dayton, Nev., hematite and magnetite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 1,500,000 tons, three months to produce, 310 miles rail and 650 miles water carriage, cost delivered $4.75 (5) Cave Canyon, San Bernardino County, Cal., hematite and magnetite, per cent iron, Bessemer, semi-self fluxing, 5-10 million tons, 225 rail, 989 miles water carri- age, can put into operation quickly, cost delivered $4.32 ton. (6) Ship Mountain, San County, Cal, per cent iron, Bessemer, many mil- lion tons, 270 miles rail, 989 miles water carriage, three months produce, cost de- livered $5.14 ton. (7) Tepustete, Baja California, Mexico, hematite and magnetite, per cent metallic iron, partially Bessemer, very large, three months produce, 1185 miles water carriage, delivered $2.50 ton. (8) Mamey, Colima, Mexico, magnetite and hematite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 24,000,000 tons, four months produce, 2180 miles water carriage, cost delivered $3.60 ton. (9) Las Truchas, Michoacan, Mex- ico, hematite and magnetite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 50,000,- 000 tons, five months produce, 2300 miles water carriage, cost delivered $3.60 ton. (10) Marcona, Peru, hematite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 50,- 000,000 tons, six months produce, miles water carriage, cost de- livered $4.30 ton. (11) Taltal, Chile, magnetite and hematite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 50,000,000 tons, six months produce, 5284 miles water carriage, cost delivered $4.05 a ton. (12) Algarrobo, Chile, magnetite, hematite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 50,000,000 tons, four months produce, 5494 miles water carriage, cost delivered $4.75 ton. (13) Chenar Quemado and Doradc magnetite, hematite, 63-per cent metal- lic iron, Bessemer, both several million tons, six months produce, 5500 miles water carriage, cost delivered $4.25. (14) Chile, magnetite, hematite, per cent metallic iron, Bessemer, 100,000,000 tons, one month deliver (operating), 5569 miles water carriage, cost delivered $4.30. Though would appear from the reports available that about three the above deposits were favorable immediate sources for iron industry, yet they are not specifically recommended. The report locates all the de- deposits worthy consideration for ferrous industry. recom- mends before’ feasibility def- initely established, such deposits should examined that can determined and group deposits selected the practical THE IRON AGE, September 24, = operating sources the raw min- eral supply. Reducing Agents. There re- duction two-ninths the weight and one-third the volume the load carbonaceous material using electric furnace instead blast furnace. Also the elec- tric furnace can use any carbona- ceous material long has good deoxidizing properties and low phosphorus, sulphur and ash. Any ordinary grade coke, crushing it, can used satisfac- torily from both metallurgical and electrical standpoint pro- duce any normal grade pig iron. Charcoal and petroleum coke preferable account its greater purity and especially its freedom from sulphur and ash and higher electrical resistance. The power consumption higher with coal coke because the extra amount slag made. Petroleum coke now finds mar- ket $11 more ton and limited 40,000 tons per year. There reason expect the quantity increased. The supply wood wastes for the production charcoal abun- dant, but due direct charges and lack market for by-products, the lowest cost charcoal that may expected $9.00 short ton. Hence coal coke recom- mended because its price ad- vantage. Coking coals occur scattered deposits along the entire Pacific Coast and adjacent inland areas. Fixed Gen- carbon eral Rank with Phos- and regard phorus ash phur bility Crows, Nest, British Sunnyside-Castle Gate, Oregon has only lignite and sub- bituminous coals. The Crows Nest and Flathead fields yield the best cokes but the long haul cost, injury transit and the duty ($2.24 per ton) makes them too expensive for Bonneville’s use. The cokes from Washington coals are decidedly superior the Alaskan and British Columbia cokes and are located close Port- land. Wilkeson Carbonado Fairfax field, Pierce County, Washington, the best available source suit- able coal for coking operations. Coke with per cent ash can made from this coal washing. The cost has ranged between and and average $5.75 per short ton. Average Analysis Wilkeson Coke Per cent The fixed carton high and al- most equal that charcoal petroleum coke. analysis the ash is: Per cent 39.09 Mn;0, 0.20 The above coke very low phosphorus compared with most cokes and contains only aver- age amount sulphur The silica high and will act flux with the iron ores recommended above. Its low crushing strength word, good coke for electric furnace use. This coke should delivered Bonneville for $6.50 ton. Foreign coke not available Bonneville because the high im- port duty, long haul and indifferent quality most the foreign cokes. one time cokes were imported notable quantities, but that was be- fore the development the Puget Sound coal fields and before oil had attained its present prominence fuel. The coking coals described for the purpose in- dicating the possibility trans- Pacific countries supplying their own market with pig iron and other ferrous products thus becom- ing formidable competitors. (TO CONTINUED) Fishway and elevator shafts between powerhouse and lock. 32—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 | | | | | | — RECIPROCITY seems every business man ab- hors but accepts in- evitable, like death and taxes. One official hits the nail the head when says, “Of course, hate but can’t the white haired boy who will above orders. have employees and stockholders think about and can’t let competitors get ahead me.” opinion, the only way the problem can licked for busi- ness band together and resolve wipe out reciprocity entirely. This suggestion may five years ahead the times because lot people not yet realize what reci- procity doing the business structure our country. meth- has yet been devised accur- ately measure the cost. some cases, part the cost known. The balance, measured terms higher maintenance charges and lower operating efficiency, remains intangible. time will even make its mark the personnel. Can’t you hear the chief engineer say himself, “There went and had boys make tests those new valves and then the brass hats ahead and decide use the old makes the other side the picture the salesman. the case hand the sales manager was elated because the decision was his favor. other cases come there will many times when the de- cision goes the other way. not logical assume that most any salesman will better job ity? The knowledge that has chance getting the order can convince the customer his company offers the best product the right price, itself suffi- cient make salesman use every weapon his command. The ab- ERE short article that deals with large sub- ject, that reciprocal buy- business today. Naturally, the author writes anonymously, for pur- chasing executive large industrial organization that does its share reciprocal selling and buying. Comments this subject from our readers should interest. sence reciprocity would turn lot order takers into salesmen. Looking once more into the crys- tal ball see the formation “League for the Abolition Reci- procity.” Just seems inevit- able now, does movement abolish appear inevitable some time hence. Reciprocity can not tolerated for the simple reason that impractical and costly. THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936—33 The joker the whole deck the fact that company can buy much sells, consequently can never hope satisfy the recip- rocal claims even small num- ber its customers. One the best examples know industrial company which buys several carloads nails each The company turn sells two classes trade, manufac- turing and jobbing. the manufacturing side every major producer nails clamor- ing for the business. The buyer “wits end” trying satisfy even appease them. top this, every once while, large jobber gets the idea should able supply the company with some nails. will write ask- ing for special consideration. some cases may even threaten take his business elsewhere un- less can sell some nails. could back the horse and buggy days when most business was conducted basis qual- ity, performance and price. don’t advocate the elimination confidence and friendship busi- ness, that would foolhardy. will sorry day under any sys- tem when man will decide against giving his former classmate order providing the fellow has what wants fair price. the league-to-be, that the League for the Abolition Reci- procity will consider the use rather strong slogan respectfully suggest, “Reciprocity Damned.” 377,313 OO \\ prepared American Railway Car In- stitute showing the ages present freight- carrying equipment. actual car shortage, which may develop this autumn, will satis- factorily determine the question how much equipment the freight the country under so- called normal conditions. Large shippers, among which the steel companies form prominent group, are already predicting that car shortage may develop October, when the peak the sea- son’s freight occurs. Railroad executives are said differ among themselves how imminent car shortage may be, even assuming that the fall movement should above 800,000 cars weekly, present expected. car nothing short Some railroads contend that the decline rolling stock over the past few years does not necessarily indicate potential shortage, al- though, course, there may shortages certain types equipment. Assuming that heavy fall movement should occur about the same time crops, coal, iron ore, steel, pig iron and all the general merchandise commod- ities, shortage certain types cars might develop without in- dicating, some railroad executives hold, anything more than that cer- tain classifications cars need replenishment rather than the fact that the total number cars all classes, taken together, in- 34—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 adequate for the country’s maxi- mum freight requirements. The railroads further point trend toward cars larger capac- ity and locomotives greater power and improved operating efficiency partial answers the contention that their equipment not sufficient well enough anced forestall equipment short- ages. Large Reduction Cars tistical report the Bureau Railway Economics, Association American Railroads, sued, there was Dec. 31, 1935, total 1,835,736 freight carrying cars owned Class railroads, this figure making allowance for bad order cars. the end 1929, year maximum movement, the same roads owned 2,277,505 cars, net reduction dur- ing the six years 441,769 cars. significient feature that more than half this reduction oc- curred box cars—a decline 243,777 the six years, and there was also large decline coal cars—135,214. Bringing the figures down later date, the Association Railroads showed total ownership 1,768,741 cars Aug. this year. bad order cars have recently been about per cent total cars owned, this indicates only about 1,521,000 Railroad Situation ° ° ° WRIGHT the probable number able cars. The American Railway Car Institute carefully worked out analysis the equipment re- quired for various levels traffic movement has estimated that 1,- 896,000 serviceable cars would required for weekly carloadings 800,000; 2,015,000 cars for 850,000 weekly loadings, and 2,133,000 cars for weekly loadings 900,000. which will proved disproved under actual conditions increas- ing traffic within the near future, the fact remains that consider- able portion cars classified the railroads serviceable con- dition have reached the age ob- solescence. Dec. 31, 1935, about 760,000 cars, more than per cent the total owned, were more than years old and must soon replaced. Per Cent Over Years Old Thus, the railroad car picture combines two important facts that have decided bearing the pur- chases rolling stock over the next five years—first, the railroads owned about 446,859 less cars the end 1935 than they had the end 1929, and, second, those owned the close last year more than per cent had reached exceeded the approxi- mate lifetime car, years. Railroad follow the trend general indus- trial activity and their own traffic movement. The years maximum traffic during the past years were 1926, when weekly average 1,021,000 loadings was recorded, and 1929, when the weekly aver- age was only slightly less, 1,- 015,000. the railroads operated with high degree efficiency | } | | =. Indicates Large Purchases 1929, when surplus and bad order cars were kept minimum and the average mileage per day was 32.3, all-time record, that year generally regarded basis for statistical measurements probable future requirements freight movement present upward trend. Despite the decreased number cars brought about obsolescence and lack volume purchases the past years, the rail- roads are making strenuous ef- fort provide sufficient number serviceable cars for whatever peak freight traffic may develop this autumn. They put through the largest grams years and presumably have greatly reduced the number bad order cars that had accumu- lated during years light traffic. their desire avoid new cap- ital investments much possi- ble the carriers have concentrated repair work, which, not too costly, can charged against op- erating expense under Interstate Commerce Commission rulings. However, the need for new equipment has been recognized and has resulted fair amount purchases, which are expected increase over the remainder the year. Railway Age computes pur- chases for the first eight months this year 34,254 freight cars, 141 passenger cars (excluding ar- ticulated streamlined trains) and locomotives. These compare with 18,699 freight cars, passenger train cars and locomotives for the entire year 1935. August orders were placed for 3225 freight cars, which was more than were bought any one year back 1930. when 46,360 were ordered. The Associa- tion American Railroads reports that Aug. Class roads had 27,151 freight cars still order, and presumably many these will service time handle this fall’s larger freight traffic. 100,000 New Cars Year May Needed Various estimates made the number new cars that the railroads should buy over the next few years bring their equipment the standard that would required for another peak movement approximating that 1929, which some observers believe may develop 1938 1939. generally conceded that serious car shortage would result traffic increased anywhere near that figure before railroads could add materially their present equip- ment. The analysis the Amer- ican Railway Car Institute, previ- ously referred predicts that car shortages would decidedly apparent under present conditions weekly carloadings exceeded 750,000 over period few months. recent weeks that fig- ure has been closely approached and some minor difficulties have arisen. For example, some tin plate mills have reported in- sufficient supply box cars for current and there has also been trouble ob- taining enough open top cars which good many iron and steel products ere Another sign tighter situation car supply the request Eastern railroads that Western roads re- turn empty box cars them with- out reloading. While the volume freight car buying over the next few years will depend large extent THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936—35 the level railroad traffic, contended those who have made close study the situation that purchases approximately 100,- 000 cars year are indicated the railroads are restored position maximum efficiency for maximum traffic the next boom period. This number would require fully 1,000,000 tons more iron and steel annually. The largest single item car con- struction plates, which about eight tons are required for tank cars, about six tons for gondola and hopper cars and four tons for box cars. Locomotive Shortage Also Conditions that exist railroad cars are paralleled locomotives. the end 1929 the number locomotives owned Class rail- roads was 57,571, but the end 1935 these had declined 46,- 594. Aug. this year, the number had further declined 44,679. However, the trend toward heavier engines shown the fact that tractive power per steam locomotive had advanced the end 1935 48,367 from 44,801 lb. the end 1929. Only new locomotives had been placed service during the first seven months this year, with still Age compilations show that 134 locomotives have been ordered dur- ing eight months this year the entire year 1934 the total was 183 and 1931 was 176. Re- ports marked increase loco- motive buying this fall have not yet been officially confirmed formal inquiries, but both cars and motive power the trend new vurchases will undoubtedly upward over the next few years. 4 ABs = i 4 | i 2: ai | WOISIN American Lurgi Corp., New York ILTRATION, that is, the sepa- ration solids and liquids one the many problems aris- ing the chemical industry that has solved most frequently. Among the numerous technical so- lutions—just mention few— are strainers, flat and drum type filters, suitable for each particular problem. Within the last few years new belt-type filter has been developed Europe which seems gain ground consistently. The design and uses this filter are fully covered Patent No. 2,034,784. This filter consists endless belt traveling over two horizontal drums. The belt made transport belt which carries per- forated rubber belt and top this filter cloth. Underneath this belt are one more suction boxes slotted the top allow the filtrate enter through the per- forations the center the trans- port belt. The filtrate withdrawn from the bottom. The suction box operated under vacuum ap- proximately 600-650 mm. ‘at very low power consumption due the automatic sealing between the belt and upper edge the suction box. The suction box can easily di- New type belt filter consists endless belt traveling over two horizontal drums. 36—THE IRON AGE, September 24, vided into any number sections. This division may varied during the operation, allowing control the concentration and the quantity the individual filtrates. The material filtered enters upon the belt near the left-hand drum and spreads evenly between its raised edges. The thickness the layer kept constant auto- matically means overflow. above adjustment the first weir. This results increase the capacity and keeps the filtra- tion uniform utilizing the prin- ciple replacement This especial importance the liquid recovered very concentrated, number steps means the counter-flow method. the latter case the new filter differs radically from the older drum type filters. Since the filter cake traveling horizontally, possible carry out precise frac- tional filtrations with various solu- tions water only one machine without danger mixing the dif- ferent solutions, the formation cracks the filter cake. such applications, number weirs are installed above the filter cake, across the entire width the belt. These weirs are adjusted corre- sponding the number and the lengths the desired filter sections separate the concentrated liquor well the several solutions water from each other. Since this means the filter cake con- tinually covered with layer, impossible for cracks appear the cake which for in- stance are operating difficulties other filters and lead large losses vacuum. This construction also makes possible wash the filter cake with minimum liquid. After filtration completed, the filter cake can subjected period drying reduce the moisture content any desired value. The filter cake discharged automatically over the right-hand drum without the use compressed air. Due the perfect seal between transport belt and suction box the consumption vacuum low. maintain vacum 600 mm. Hg. approximately 100 cu. ft. air per minute are pumped from the filter with effective suction area sq. ft. This corresponds power consumption hp. for the vacuum pump. The power consump- tion for operating the filter also low depending course upon the speed which the filter has op- erate. general, approximately hp. the average power consump- tion. After discharge the filter cake the filter cloth travels underneath the apparatus and there washed continuously with water any suitable liquid. Thus the pores the filter cloth are cleaned and the penetration restored. The water liquid used not lost but re- circulated the last section over the filter cake. | | | | | | | | | | | | | boilers and tanks much high- pressures than were called for few years ago have resulted the need manhole covers with increased strength provide higher factor safety. Boilers capable withstanding pressures 2000 lb. more per sq. in. are now being used, while not very long ago 125-lb. pressure for boilers was regarded high pressure. Manhole covers have been made iron and steel castings but those now most commonly used are stampings that require crimping, welding, riveting the bolt slot member the top the cover. For some high pressure vessels, man- hole covers machined from solid steel are used, but these are neces- sarily expensive compared with other types. Drop forge manhole assemblies are recent product the Steel Improvement Forge Co., land, which has devoted consider- able attention the development new uses for forgings. These forged covers are designed with- stand the maximum boiler pres- sures the present day and with the simplicity the design the cover and the production meth- ods that are being used, stated that the cost making the drop forged covers compares favorably with that making covers steel stampings, and the former have not only greater strength but are said possess many other advantages. demands industry for The entire manhole cover single forging, the bolt bases for attaching the yokes being integral with the body. center rib located between the bolt slots acts reinforcing in- creasing the strength. They are forged from in. and in. square billets and the twin yokes from round bars in. diameter. The yokes are formed T-shape pro- vide maximum strength and pre- vent distortion under the heavy strain exerted the bolts. High- est quality A.S.M.E. forging steel used both for the bodies and yokes. The pieces are forged Drop Forged Manhole Covers hole cover single forging, the bolt bases for at- taching the yokes being tegral with the body. steam drop hammers, 6000 ham- mers being used for covers and 3000-lb. hammers for the yokes. Two standard types forged manhole covers are manufactured. One, which designated standard cover, made stand- ard in. and other sizes and designed for normal pressure op- erations and meet all code re- quirements for pressures 300 The other heavy duty cover in., designed for high pres- sures. The standard cover in. thick its thinnest point and in. thick the flange. The corre- sponding thicknesses the heavy duty unit are in. and in. The standard assembly weighs and the high pressure cover weighs 110 lb. assembled. The bolt slots the high pres- sure cover are milled and the gas- ket flange machined provide smooth bearing seat assure tight seal with gasket. The flange machined machine tool espe- cially designed for machining ellipse. machining required the standard model, the bolt slots and gasket surfaces this being smooth forged. Advantages claimed for the forged cover strength resulting hot working the metal, thicker sec- tion and greater strength the gasket shoulder where the greatest stresses occur, comparatively straight side along the shoulder against which the gasket fits, elimi- nation leakage around the base cover, close tolerances, closely fitting unit and high safety factor. series tests was conducted determine the maximum allow- able working pressure the stand- ard in. drop forged cover. These were made accordance with the rules the Bureau Navigation and Steamboat Inspec- tion, Department Com- merce, and those given A.S.M.E. boiler code. rectangular pressure vessel was used for the tests. The covers were placed over opening pro- vided the top the vessel and pressure was applied hand oper- ated water pressure pump. Mea- surements were obtained several (CONCLUDED PAGE 90) THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936—37 a ° ° ° & 4 its, ae | | 1 cy, : ag q by | | bottoms and bottom rings, and 3/16 in. sides and covers. EIGHTEEN 5000-BBL. TANKS COMPLETED ONE MONTH storage tanks here pictured were built one month the for the new Santa Springs, Cal., construction. The tanks are made pieces steel plate, cut and formed and then welded into integral unit without the use inter- mediate connecting members. Approximately 3000 ft. welding was required each tank. Photo Electric Co. GASOLINE TRUCK TANK HIGH TENSILE STEEL TREAMLINED the modern motif and luxuriously finished this gasoline carrier the Mid-Western Petroleum Corp., built recently Kennedy Son, Indian- apolis. Truck tank has capacity 1050 gal. gasoline and steel recently developed American Rolling Mill Co. especially for severe service all types transportation equipment. BOEING BUILDING NEW AIRPLANE PLANT airplane assembly plant 204 304 ft. with clear height ft. and entirely free tions and posts and with unbroken area 2,100,000 cu. ft. being erected Boeing Field, Seattle, the Austin Co., Cleveland, for the Boeing Aircraft Co. The building will Boeing, No. 299, bombing planes fully assembled one time. ci | | | HERE'S ONE FOR THE BOOK! GROW HAIR used for new machine that said grow hair bald heads. The machine, here illustrated, was designed Dr. Andre Cueto, Cincinnati, and manufactured Crosley Radio Corp., same city. This development came about through the use the same principle for the restora- tion circulation feet and legs, which diselosed that hair was made grow legs. Ergo, similar machine for restoring hair bald pates. During clinical tests some 500 cases have been treated with positive results, said, per cent. STEEL USED NEW ALL-STEEL WELDED COAL BARGE ARGE line operators the Ohio River are showing great interest new coal barge constructed Dravo Contractin The new all welded steel coal carrier 175 ft. long over all, ft. beam and ft. in. deep. tons. The welding method was carefully planned and required extensive and accurate shop fabrication; also sub-assemblies various units part the shop fabrication. AMERICAN STEEL COLOMBIAN PATROL BOATS MERICAN plates the form patrol boats will soon chasing bandits and smugglers the waters Colombia, South America. These boats are being built Modern Engineering Co., Covington, Ky., and are unique design, being ft. long, ft. beam and weighing five tons. They draw only in. under aver- age load. Armco hot-rolled plates, in. thick, are used. All seams are arc welded. Motive power supplied Ford V-8 marine adapted engines. Speed miles hour. Co., Pittsburgh. Its capacity, fully loaded 850 net 4 OSES eee Harry Sheldon (in center) the grand stand surrounded members his fam- ily and (at left) Frank Detwiler, vice-president company Harry Sheldon, Allegheny President, Honored Civic Groups and Employees ARRY SHELDON, who rose from $2-a-week ap- prentice boy president and part owner the Allegheny Steel Thursday, Sept. 17, when the towns Tarentum, Natrona Heights, Harrison Township and Bracken- ridge, Pa., where the Allegheny mills are situated, declared holi- Sheldon and paid tribute man whose civic work and benevolences have and employees that industrial section western Pennsylvania. The affair was arranged and out the business and leaders those towns and fully 25,000 persons, from school ‘children oldest residents, partici- pated. There were also many visitors from Pittsburgh and other cities. 40—THE IRON AGE, September 24, 1936 was all day celebration, starting with official reception the morning the high school building, followed parade, many miles long, with score more bands and marching school children and mill workers. Another feature the day’s events was nationwide radio hook-up consist- ing speeches interspersed with music. Ford Bond was the radio announcer and talks were made John Kennedy Lowell Thomas, well-known radio com- mentators, which Mr. Sheldon made brief response. Useful His Community “Whatever Harry Sheldon has done this community,” said Mr. Kennedy, “has been useful, for large employer has recognized his right the work pays for, but also his duty the workmen pays. This the simplest rule relations between employer and employed. the only true and persevering alternative misrule one side the other. For com- munity interest the heart so- cial security. The community in- deed the safeguard against that other idea from the same root word far from the same meaning— his reply Mr. Sheldon said: “This holiday and celebration not much personal testi- monial assurance that the close, friendly cooperation between will continue. evidence that have fine community, good citizens and industry which has tried for over years play well its part community life. “The efforts everyone who has been connected with our company | | | } | that time mill, laboratory office have been devoted building institution which greater and more enduring than any those who have participated its mak- all who ever contributed the labor their heads hands its ad- vancement. hope and believe that this com- munity, its citizens and its industry, will continue the future the past solve their mutual prob- lems together, whether the problem increasing our useful- ness, caring for our needy and suffering resisting the ravages flood. “This spirit cooperation will harm none and benefit all, from the Federal government which receives our tax payments the children our local schools. Let devote ourselves its preservation.” Testimonials Presented testimonial from the asso- ciated communities, Mr. Sheldon was presented with stainless steel plaque. Hazlett, represent- ing the citizens’ committee, pointed out that Mr. Sheldon’s enterprise had brought more than $120,000,- 000 wages the communities years and has furnished, with one two brief interruptions, con- tinuous employment for thousands men that time. The 7000 em- ployees the Allegheny Steel Co. presented Mr. Sheldon with lov- ing cup and the Tarentum post the American Legion presented him with certificate distinguished service. Mr. Sheldon now years age, but found every day his office the mill. partner- ship with Capt. Alfred Hicks organized the Allegheny Steel Iron Co. (predecessor Allegheny Steel Co.) 1900 with capitali- zation $300,000 and served its general manager until 1908, when became president, which position Freeport, Pa., July, 1861, and was orphaned early age. quit school when was nine and took his first job. became apprentice machine shop week, and some years later the sheet mill Kirkpatrick Co. Leechburg, Pa., but soon rose the skilled work hammer man, roller and shearsman, and then succession executive positions. finally was appointed manager the plant and continued that capacity until was sold the United States Steel Corp. 1900. was then that established the company which still heads. White Stresses Importance Good Foremen Plant men modern industrial or- ganizations were discussed White, vice-president charge operations, Republic Steel Corp., the thirteenth annual convention the National Association Foremen, Youngstown, Mon- day. Mr. White pointed out that one the country’s leading political commentators has stated that political organization only successful the precinct captains are able. Without the intensive work the precinct captains status and value fore- WHITE among the voters, political or- ganization, said, could hope elect its candidates. According Mr. White, the same reasoning indus- trial organizations. industry, the president and high executives may individual geniuses their various departments, and the super- intendents may men ab