This is a result of not so well packing (lots of protection but not a hard box) and DHL service:









It seems some (heavy) weight stood over the side of the machine...

At least the boiler connection is just bent and no sign of crack at the chrome, so I hope no problems to the brass. The steam wand is bad, but I think it helped to avoid more damage to the boiler...

As Stefano told me, and I agree, it would be risky to bend it back, maybe that could in fact crack the weld or brass. Does anybody think this small bend could be a problem?

Márcio.

Just for reference, there is this thread with the same problem: Can this shipping damaged Elektra Microcasa a Leva be rescued?

I'll read it!

Márcio.

Yes, there is the insurance but I don't think it will be an option for another reason.

I don't think it should have problems... I think this machine should be disassembled to replace all gaskets and get a good cleaning, maybe I could test the boiler around 2-2.5 bar with the pump and a OPV (and water around 80°C)?

Márcio.

Carneiro wrote:I don't think it should have problems...

That reminds me of the joke "What's the last thing an idiot says before dying?" (*) Anyway, there's no casing enclosing the boiler, so in the unlikely event something goes wrong, it goes badly. Just food for thought.








(*) Answer: "Hey guys, watch this!"

Buying my ticket to "Darwin Awards" website?

Yes, Elektra's are scary for the exposed boiler. Maybe some extensive testing with water and steam (this one remotely...).

Márcio.

Initial hydrostatic test, water around 80°C and pressure around 2.5 bar (I've tightened the safety valve). I've kept the pressure between 2 and 2.5 bar using the pump for 10 minutes. No leaking at the boiler, near the valve or any other fitting.

I could go over 2.5 bar if I plug the safety valve thread.

Márcio.

Hi, Don.

Yes, the wand I'll try to fix and do the chrome is not expensive if I want it beautiful. But I think it will show some crack when I bend it back.

I'll do more hydrostatic test when I can change all the gaskets and clean the boiler, and if I can plug the safety valve I can go to 4 bar. One tech from Elektra just told me the MAWP (max allowed working pressure) of the Elektra's are 1.5 bar, so makes sense the safety valve was opening around 2-2.2 bar (1.5 times 1.5). I asked what the pressure they use for hydrostatic tests at the factory, I hope I get an answer - as Caesar told me it should be around 4 times the MAWP.

After that, I'll do the steam test around 1.5 bar on a controlled environment for some time, before use the machine.

Márcio.