A test grid and mockup of what the top of the Boiler will look like, minus the small cracks. Laser etching on anodized aluminum.
The guys over at, fittingly enough, Pittsburgh Anodizing worked up the anodized aluminum circles for testing. They’re the same guys who anodized one of my prototypes last summer and are, similarly, a class act. On their behalf, I should make a note about the cracking you see in the photo. First, it appears a lot more prominent there than it does in person, and second, it is mostly the result of me flattening the material (I had delivered it to them a bit warped) after it was anodized.
Neither anodizing nor laser etching are cheap, but the reason I like them so much is that they work with, rather than cover over, the underlying material. Anodizing turns the skin of soft aluminum into a super-tough oxide. Laser etching, as it was done here, pulverizes that oxide leaving an indelible mark. Nothing to wear off over time. No waste. Beautiful.
[ 9 comments… read them below or add one ]
Things may be taking a bit longer than anticipated, but with the ammount of dedication and the obvious quality of design, materials and labor, this will turn out to be worth the wait. Thanks for the constant updates.
Vinosaur
That looks fantastic, really top quality stuff. Good things come to those who wait.
Can’t say it any better; looks effing sweet!
I actually like the cracking on the aluminum! Anyway, it looks fantastic!
Just seeing all the aspects of the final products have got me so excited to have this boiler in my pack. Nice work Devin!
Since this obviously isn’t making my trip next week, the only solution is to plan another trip for late March. Right?
Wish I’d managed to get in an order in fort eh 1st batch. Looks excellent, agree with Shed Dweller good things…..
Thanks guys! I’m glad this got some good reactions. I’ve been waiting to see that design committed to metal since this summer and it came out even better than expected.
Vino – thanks! I had hoped that the updates would add value to the Boiler-buying experience, and give folks a peek into what it takes to get something like this made. It’s not all smooth sailing, but totally worth it.
Shed – Concur!
Duane – Well, it’s as close to cursing as I can commit to writing without feeling crude. :)
Hendrik – Right?! It actually reminds me of the crackling I’ve seen on Raku pottery. On at least this first batch there will be some cosmetic “imperfections” in the Boilers, some of which were unavoidable, some of which I elected to keep. I really do see them like the artisan clay mugs I drink my coffee from and take those marks as testaments of character, just as I prefer my hand-thrown mug to the pristine, boring molded edition from SuperStore A, B, or C.
Forbes – sorry about next week! But you are solid for that next one in March. :)
Steven – Thanks! And I really like your post on OCD Route Logging. I’ve grappled with the same question: how does one really tell the story of a trip? I’ve tried a lot of different things myself, but nothing as ambitious as Zippymap, even if it is dormant.
Looking good Devin.
Pity about the warning though. I was going to boil water with the stopper in and sue your ass off! ;)
Thanks, Mike! But unfortunately, there are some desires I just can’t cater to. :)
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