67 Cremina - Asbestos Insulation Removal

I'm not sure what this stuff is on the outside of the boiler. It looks like cement, but from what I read, I'm pretty sure there is some asbestos relative buried inside. Whatever it is, I'm not taking any chances and decided to remove it. The insulation is in good condition (no flaking), so it might be better simply to leave it in place. Still, for the sake of  my family, I figure it's best to simply get it off and out of my house. Besides, it's just plain UGLY !

I brought it outside and soaked it for 30 minutes in hot water.

Meanwhile, inside the house I put on a apron, mask, glasses and rubber gloves. In the end, this turn out to be  totally unnecessary since the insulation  simply peels off if long strips like thick, wet wallpaper and sinks harmlessly to the bottom of the pail.

(IMPORTANT !) I used a wooden paint stripper to prevent scratching the soft brass, since I am planning to shine it up like new and don't want any scratches from a metal scraper or wire brush.

Here's what it looked like after about 10 minutes of underwater peeling.

Apart from the chunks that fell to the bottom, the water was surprisingly clear. Still, I got out my funnel and a coffee filter and did a "pourover" to filter the water into another bucket which I dumped.

The chucks that were left (and the filter) were then stored in an airtight plastic container, which I will bring to my city for proper disposal.

So here's what's left after removing the insulation. (On the right is a spent Howitser shell for comparison......double boiler Cremina anyone? Hee Hee).

I liked the nice patina finish on the boiler after the insulation was removed. Still, my plan is to shine it up. But that's tomorrow's job.