Metal Head Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 I'm new to blacksmithing and I need some experienced blacksmith to answer my question.I can make a forge and all related equipment but where I live in northern nevada I can't get any coal to work with,but I have access to a LOT of wood from a pallet manufacturer, and could this be used in a forge to do metal work?any advice will be appreciated,thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Frosty Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Welcome aboard Metalhead. Yes, charcoal it first and you're good to go. You CAN burn it straight but the fire you have to stand in front of as it burns down to coals you can use will roast you alive. I've tried it, not much fun. Frosty Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Metal Head Posted September 3, 2008 Author Share Posted September 3, 2008 thanks Frosty,what would be the procedure to charcoal the wood? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Glenn Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Do a search for making charcoal on IForgeIron. You will find lots of information on the subject. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tom Lumpkins Posted September 3, 2008 Share Posted September 3, 2008 Welcome to the site, There's a lot good info on here.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hoary Posted September 4, 2008 Share Posted September 4, 2008 Welcome aboard!!! Well I use charcoal I make myself, of course I'm sure I waste alot more than needed to make it, but you know. I basically get my fire pit ready and burn a load of wood and when I'm finished for the night water it down and what's left from the fire I use as the coal. Now, the common practice of it can be done by using a 55 gal drum loading it full of wood setting it on fire and as it drops below the lip of the drum you place a metal sheet to kind of smother the flames and let sit till the drum is cool. but a couple of things to remeber in this or any method of creating it make sure you never use excellerants ( gas, lighter fluids ect.) as it could make the end product toxic or put you at unessesary risk of getting injured, also whatever you burn it in make sure you know it's origins. for examples drums that used to carry any oil or chemicals, probably not a good idea unless you have a proffesional clean it out, and containers that are galvanized extremely dangerous b/c of Fume fever. I hope this kinda gets you gears turning, but as Glenn says research it in this great library of information! Good luck. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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