Agent_Smith Posted June 6, 2018 Share Posted June 6, 2018 So basically, I built this forge out of an old aluminum grill top. My hopes were to use this as a small coal forge for bladesmithing. My question is, will the aluminum shell be able to withstand these temperatures with proper insulation? The shell is approximately 28" wide, 20" long and 8" deep. Essentially, I did a 3 inch layer of pea gravel on the bottom, around a black steel air intake. I used a mound of foundation sand for the pit, and filled in the empty space with a clay top soil. I'm pretty confident that this will be sufficient insulation on the sides/bottom, however I am concerned about the lip of the shell conducting heat. It is slightly raised above the pit and is as close as 8" in parts. I have included a picture of the set up. This is my first forge and I would love some experienced advice. Thanks in advance. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daswulf Posted June 6, 2018 Share Posted June 6, 2018 Looks like it'll be fine. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charles R. Stevens Posted June 6, 2018 Share Posted June 6, 2018 Well 2” of dirt protects wood, that ignites at about 600f... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steve Sells Posted June 6, 2018 Share Posted June 6, 2018 I dont see what this has to do with coal analysis , I will move it to a more sensible place Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Frosty Posted June 6, 2018 Share Posted June 6, 2018 Welcome aboard Agent Smith, glad to have you. If you'll put your general location in the header you might be surprised how many of the gang live within visiting distance. Nothing will advance you in the craft like hooking up with experienced folk. That should be fine as a forge. If the rim looks like it's starting to melt, rake a little soil over the edges. Then build smaller fires! Frosty The Lucky. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JHCC Posted June 6, 2018 Share Posted June 6, 2018 Welcome to IFI, Agent Smith. Please READ THIS FIRST!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Agent_Smith Posted June 6, 2018 Author Share Posted June 6, 2018 Thanks for the responses everyone, put my mind at ease a bit. I will be firing it up tonight or tomorrow most likely! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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