charcoal in side blast forges

[Charles R. Stevens]

Ok,'a question for those of you using charcoal in side blast forges. Ok two,
1- how deep is the fire bowl
2- how far of the bottom is the tweer?

[Don A]

I use a side-blast charcoal forge at the Fort I volunteer at.

I have configured it where the blast pipe comes it at the very bottom of the forge.

I build the sides of the fire-pot out of fire brick so I can vary the size depending on the size of the work. If I'm making S-hooks from 1/4" stock, I only need a small fire, but if I am working with 1/2" or bigger, I can open it up for a larger fire.

Regardless, I always try to keep at least 4" of fire UNDER the stock. A deep fire can take a gentle air blast and the heat is more even and efficient.


Here is the basic fire pot / pan / whatever:



And here it is in use:



Hope this helps,

Don

[ThomasPowers]

Most side blasts I have seen have the blast several inches above the bottom so you have the clinker and ash *below* the air inlet. As I recall Moxon's Mechanics Exercises has plans for a side blast as of around 1700 I can look it up but won't be online again till Monday.