The above video was shot over the weekend, when Uwe and Anke at Pittsburgh Engravers double-timed it to get the Boilers done quickly. Done right, early and under budget. They definitely made my life easier, and I should also give some credit to their son. It was his Legos that allowed for such quick construction of a jig to hold the Boilers during the process.
The Boilers are now all back in my apartment. Just some last minute labeling, cleaning and packing and then they’re off! Stay tuned for the first images of completed Backcountry Boilers!
Oh, and how cool is laser etching? You can hear the child-like glee in my voice as I witness the magic. Come on, the Boiler is made by robots, charged particles and lasers!
[ 6 comments… read them below or add one ]
I can’t watch the video on my phone :-( I’ll have to have a look when I get home. Lasers and shiny kit its just got to be good!
Fregging lasers!
Should have etched the Legos while you were there. Too cool just a few more days and I’ll be holding one of these puppies
OMG! I was so gonna ask what the deal was with the Legos. That is really cool. As far as your “Glee” goes, I have to admit that your entire project inspires me. The idea that a regular Joe can take an idea, then learn how to perfect it, market it, and move it through multiple stages of production appeals to me on some subconscious scale. I can’t wait to see mine in person. My only worry is that someone will hi-jack it off my front porch while I am on an 8 day AT trip.
Devin – what a cool project that you’ve brought along from infancy to a really nice end product. I’m interested in getting one and had a couple questions.
1) I noticed in the laser etching vid that there’s a small hole opposite the main fill hole. I assume this is for the anodizing process? How are you plugging that hole now?
2) In one of your videos where you fire up your prototype, it looks like the neoprene is slightly loose-fitting (or maybe I’m imagining things). Do the new neoprene sleeves fit really snugly? Also, do you ever have problems with them burning or melting?
3) Have you thought about putting a heat exchanger ring/platform on the top of the boiler so a pot could be placed there for more traditional cooking?
4) Lastly, it’s not clear anywhere on your site, but I assume the fire cup inverts and stores in the bottom of the kettle? Is it OK to burn a fire in the fire cup with the kettle in place but with no water in the kettle… or will that damage the kettle?
Thanks in advance!
Thanks Shed, Adam, and Eggs. Laser etched Legos would be cool. :)
Jake – thanks! That’s exactly what I hope this project illustrates – making sweet gear yourself is totally doable! On the porch woes – have a friendly neighbor?
JJ – Woah. First, thanks!
1. That’s exactly what it’s for. It is sealed with a small permanent silicone plug.
2. The sleeve is now more snug than it used to be – it does expand some with the heat. As long as it doesn’t contact the fire base, it won’t melt at all.
3. Many folks have asked about this. It is a great DIY project.
4. The cup inverts as you suggest. Using the vessel without water in it will permanently damage it. A manual on use is shipping out with the Boilers I’m packing right now and will be available online in the next few days.
Thanks again all!