Hello to all. I am building my first forge and have several questions.
1. I have a 40lb propane cylinder that I am planning on using for the body of the forge. I plan to cut out one end of it and weld it to an old cast iron table saw top. The end that I cut off I will use fire bricks to seal up all but where I can insert my blades into. I am thinking about forming the bottom up with adobe in a v shape with my black pipe in the bottom of the V. I have a blower from an above stove microwave with twin squirrel cages on it. The fan is also variable speed. I plan to use metal duck work to form a box to attach the fan to and the black pipe for the air intake.
The fire pot will be about 16" long and that will work great on my longer knives. I figured I could use some fire brick to shorting the fire pot when I am forging a short blade. No need to waste charcoal.
The question is am asking is does this configuration sound like it would work?
2. Will regular Kingsford charcoal get hot enough?
3. I have access to coal. Would coal be a better fuel source?
4. Should I cut the tank in half or leave the round top in place to help conserve heat? The tank will be welded on its side with one end cut off.
5. Would it be better to use adobe on the top or just leave the metal bare?
Sorry for all the questions. Like I said I am a newbie to this forum and to forging. 60yo and starting a new hobby. I make knives by the stock removal method and now I want to expand into forging.
Thanks in advance for any info.
Johnny