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Author Topic: Perfect Protection Mat for Running Steam Engines on Wife's Counter Top!  (Read 195 times)

crazydoug

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In fear of scorching my wife's new kitchen counter top, I have tried several different products to set my steam and hit and miss engines on, while running them in the kitchen.  I've tried various kitchen cutting boards, but they stain easily, the dirt cannot be removed, and the engines slide around on them, as well as the board sliding around on the kitchen counter top.  I needed something that would withstand high temperature, be easy to clean off, and not move. 

Finally the perfect solution is this 1/4" thick silicone rubber sheet.  I found someone one eBay who would custom-cut a piece the size I wanted, and it is perfect for my use.  It will withstand 600 degree temperatures and it does not move around.  It stays firmly in place and also keeps the engine firmly seated.
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txlabman

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Doug:

A link would be greatly appreciated.

Charlie

St Paul Steam

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good solution Doug, I could use a bit myself.
Bruce, St. Paul Indiana, USA
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SlowArrow

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That looks like it would really work well!  I get a lot of static from my bride every time I set up on her counter surfaces.  That material would answer most of her concerns
Mike

Jim

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Thanks Doug, could you post a link up to the seller?
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Jim

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Weedensteam

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How do you guys do it, would take a lot more than that for Marilyn to allow me to run an engine in her kitchen.  :)
Frank C.
http://weedensteam.com
       - engine identification and parts

txlabman

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How do you guys do it, would take a lot more than that for Marilyn to allow me to run an engine in her kitchen.  :)

Agree Frank. I am banned to the Steam Cave aka The Garage. 🤠

crazydoug

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https://www.ebay.com/itm/Silicone-Rubber-Sheet-1-4Thk-x-4-x-12-Rect-Pad-US-Mil-Spec-60-Duro-Gray/153216949109?hash=item23ac711b75:g:HQMAAOSwtYJbwYbw

here's the link.
this is 60 durometer. I wanted black, but it is only available in 80 durometer, which is less flexible and probably not as "grippy".
You will have to contact seller for a quote on a custom size, but he responds quickly and ships quickly.
crazydoug

crazydoug

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Having this old-fashioned outside through-the-wall exhaust fan makes a big difference when running engines in the kitchen. 

jkbixby

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I can't even begin to imagine what would happen if I tried to run an engine in the kitchen - I barely escaped with my life the last time when I used the oven to bake some paint while Jan was at the gym but came back early.  :)  I do thank you for the link though 'cause I think a piece of that would do me well downstairs.
Regards,
Larry

SlowArrow

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Thanks for the tip and the link.  I just picked up two 18"X18" pads.
Mike