pvalnz

I am planning to build a "brick pile" type of forge to get a feel for blacksmithing. I am a newly retired metal fabricator/welder. But have very little blacksmithing experience. I know the characteristics of soft and hard firebrick, but I don't understand when one is a better choice than the other when building a forge. Can someone enlighten me ?

Charlie, I was really fascinated with your analysis on inline treadle hammer design. I didn't understand most of it, but truly appreciated the effort that you put into it. What intrigued me even more was that BEAUTIFUL model you made. Is it possible that you could send me a dimensioned drawing of the model so that I might better understand the workings of the linkage, particularly the elliptical elements. I am new to this forum and only yesterday saw your post. I have worked as a welder/fabricator for the past 42 years and am planning to retire in June. I have built some rather complex industrial machinery in that time (INCLUDING THE DRILL RIG THAT HELP FREE 33 MINERS IN CHILE BACK IN 2010) so I CAN READ DRAWINGS AND BLUEPRINTS. Thanks, Charlie. ---- Peter