Probing Question... Cement Pipe Forge

[69_knives]

I wonder if it is a wise idea to install a stainless pipe just big enough for a probe, through the side of my pipe forge that I'm building with refractory cement? The only reason I can think this would be bad idea is it may be a stress point for the cement and cause a crack.

Would it be any better to wait until the cement is calcined, drill a hole, install the pipe and then apply the satanite and ITC-100?

I'm planning for this forge to be PID controlled, so, where do y'all stick your probes?

 

[Dan Zawacki]

I'm as much a pyrophile as any smith, but I don't think any of us actually stick our probes in our forges.

On a more serious note, the curing then drilling route sounds a little less safe overall. Sure, once the cement is fully cured, it's more stable, but what if something happens while drilling (like you sneeze or a peice of dross bites your arm or something) and you end up doing real damage...

No, I think I'd rather risk the small crack that you can patch with some ITC than run the risk of doing real damage.

Just a thought from an amature who is more well acquainted with Murphy that I have any right to be.

 

[69_knives]

The PID and probing thing is all very new to me so I had no idea that I could get a 12" probe. What I think I will do is get the 12" probe and poke it in the back door. of the forge. That and I already finished ramming the refractory, so no turning back now.

Here's to hoping the two 'pours' of refractory like each other and I have a crack-free forge.

This is going to be one sweet mother lovin forge.