I must say this thread has been super informative. I've been kicking around the idea of doing a similar design with a 20# propane tank but feel like the 583 ci of Fire box Wayne quotes on his site is quite demanding for needed output of burner/burners. Besides being slightly bigger/longer than I would need, I do not have a 100# lp tank to feed the beast nor a truck to haul said 100# tank for refills. FYI this would be my first forge and have reasons for wanting gas.
So I suppose my main question is, is a 20 pounder just too big for a general purpose forge or consume too much fuel for someone like me? I like the idea of a smaller helium tank, but also not sure if I can get one for cheap.
Follow up: pearlite filler is a great idea! is that mixed homegenously with refractory or is refractory layered over the top? I.e. Not pre mixed
I do realize it does depend on the type of burner I have in mind. I originally thought gun/blown type but pricing fans was a HUGE turn off. Then it was on to NA and the T, but recently just loved frostys work on a NARB. (2" x 6" I think?)
Im just trying to figure out exactly what I'm gonna do before collecting materials.
Nice work planning so far JHCC, don't give up I'll take the plunge with ya!
Thanks!