cracked polycarbonate stems
I have a report from one smoker that 4 of his pipes have cracked polycarbonate stems.
If you purchased one of my pipes, which has a brass tenon and a polycarbonate stem, please check the stem for cracks in the area where the tenon meets the stem. If you find a problem contact me asap.
The exact resolution of this problem is not yet determined. Apparently the tight press-fit of the tenon into the polycarbonate left unrelieved stress, and over time it can cause cracking. One possible solution would be to anneal the polycarbonate at 250F for a couple hours, but without precise temperature control there is a hazard of stem-face decofmation. Another possible solution is to use a larger drill and epoxy.
Once I figure out how to deal with the issue I will contact those who have reported problems. Since it is not entirely clear whether or not remaining in the pipemaking business is a good idea, if you have a problem stem let me know asap.
If you purchased one of my pipes, which has a brass tenon and a polycarbonate stem, please check the stem for cracks in the area where the tenon meets the stem. If you find a problem contact me asap.
The exact resolution of this problem is not yet determined. Apparently the tight press-fit of the tenon into the polycarbonate left unrelieved stress, and over time it can cause cracking. One possible solution would be to anneal the polycarbonate at 250F for a couple hours, but without precise temperature control there is a hazard of stem-face decofmation. Another possible solution is to use a larger drill and epoxy.
Once I figure out how to deal with the issue I will contact those who have reported problems. Since it is not entirely clear whether or not remaining in the pipemaking business is a good idea, if you have a problem stem let me know asap.
posted by random at 9:09 AM
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