Furnace Build or Buy?

L

langchop

Joined
Jun 16, 2007
Messages
301
Hi all,

Just thought this info might of use to some of those interested in getting a furnace:

I have researched and found paragon heat treat furnaces to be about R10 000; Locally made tube filter with digital controller to be about R8000.

Having gotten quotes for all materials to make a furnace similar to the paragon and andy gascoigne designs, this totalled about R1700. I had a good contact and got an excellent price on a now discontinued analogue controller, so would probably add about R300 for a normal retail cost.

I know my currency means nothing to anyone, but the important aspect is that you are looking at a 75% cost saving if you make it yourself and your on a tight budget.;)
 
Lang -

I started trying to pick up parts to put together an oven a bit back. I haven't gotten the work done, but I wanted to let you know that I found digital controls wouldn't add to my cost. A digital controller and SSR will be under $100 US, don't know what it would cost where you're at. An infinite switch and analogue pyrometer from a casting supply would cost me just as much.
 
I built the one by Andy G cost $300 My controller is 220 volt digital by Auber Inst. Does not ramp but can buy one that does for $80.00. Stay with digital with a ssr relay.
The inside is 5.5 x 4.5 by 18 long Thats inches. the plans are right on but you can modify a little.
My oven will stay within 2-3 degrees of set temperature and reaches 1500 degrees F in under 10 minutes.
Highly recomended.
Take Care
TJ
 
Yup admittedly I did not even look into digital controller. The only real difference is that the analogue controller is K type thermocouple specific and the digital can use a range of types. (this was the type I intended using anyway) For this reason I am sure they are considerably more expensive. My system will also use an SSR.

I got the techy guys at the kanthal wire suppliers to spec my elements for me based on the inside furnace size and temp required. I think the time it takes to get to temp is more a function of the element power and furnace size than what type of controller is fitted. What will be interesting is to see how it responds when it settles at the set temp.

The test will be when I throw the whole lot together... If it doesnt work I will come running back and tell every to buy a furnace instead!

Thanks for the feedback guys.

Lang
 
Its better to buy furnace. You can go with many sites such as amazon, handyman, united filters ,which provide furnace at low cost . You can compare cost as well. Built furnace work just fine.
 
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