Layers of Kaowool?

B

BadBamaUmp

Joined
Aug 8, 2000
Messages
454
Wifey got tired of the coal smell and all the visits from the local volunteer fire department. I've got all the parts laid out for my propane forge, 1 Reil style burner, the body is 10" diameter by 12" long, should I use 1 or 2 layers of 1" kaowool. I plan on using it indoors some, I know that 2 layers should cut down on radiant heat, but will it make the forge more effective?

Thanks in advance,
Will
 
I use 2 layers and I do feel it contains the heat better. Please make sure you coat the kaowool It is teally nasty stuff after a few heatings if it is not coated!

BTW, if you think the wife fusses and the local cindercops get upset with coal....try forging a sword in a pit using charcoal and a vacume cleaner blower!!!!!:eek: Looks like the 4th!
 
Peter, thanks for the quick reply.... I can imagine what that must've looked like. :eek: I tried Tai's "wood forging", I got to really cranking on the ole Champion 400 just because of the pretty flames and throwing a bunch of pecan and whatever I could get the kids to drag over. :D :eek: :D

I thought the 2 layers would be better, just wanted someone else to back me up with the wifey ;)

Will
 
Hey Peter. I'm relining my forge now, I too just switched from coal to gas and I pretty much have destroyed my kaowool right off. I'm going to add more layers to fill in the large amount of space in the forge (10" diameter). What do you coat koa wool with and where do you get it? Now I just have to figure out how to contain all that melted flux.
 
Will, ITC100 will increase the efficiency.

J., The same stuff you is what you coat the Kaowool with.

Ron Reil says it's the best stuff for it. The store at anvilfire.com sells it in pints.

Flux will eat away kaowool and ITC100. Get some brick, or high alumina kiln shelf, or make a floor from refractory cement.

This is according to the experts - I've been reading up on it a lot 'cause I'm building a gas forge myself - not from personal experience.
 
"DANGER"
If you plan on running your forge indoors, make sure you have plenty of ventilation. We do not want to have a Carbon Monoxide casualty!! A CO detector would be an invaluable purchase. I run forges (one Reil type and a Fogg type) out in the garage (20' X30') with all doors open and 2 fans operating to ventilate the area. So please be careful. :)
 
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