Question about propane forge

[FlaMtnBkr]

I recently built a propane forge following IG's website. I have fired it up a few times for about a minute to help dry/cure the satanite. My first question is does the satanite normally turn black? Where it is getting direct heat from the burner it is turning black and not the gray color of the satanite. I dont remember other forges I have seen pictures of being black inside. Just wondering if this means I have a burner problem and I am getting some kind of carbon/soot deposit. Secondly, I am currently using a hair dryer because it's what I had on-hand. I would guess on high it is putting out 25-30 CFM a minute? I am using my own valve design because I didnt want to spend $25 on a ball valve and once I get it going I have the valve all the way close so its getting all the air. Should this be enough? I guess its a lot more than a venturi so I would think its adequate. About how long does it take to get up to welding heat? And does the whole inside of the forge eventually glow red or just the area getting blasted by the burner? Never been around a forge before so just trying to get a feel for how they are supposed to work. All input is greatly appreciated! Now if it would just hurry up and dry cause I am dying to pound on something...

 

[J. Neilson]

Don't rush the satanite. Just let it cure on it's own. You may just be getting a bit of discoloration from your piping, it happens sometimes and it will burn off. Yes, your whole chamber will turn red (mine does in about 10 mon. or so) and it will heat even better if you block up the openings so there is only what you need to get the material in and out.

 

[indian george]

My forge get to welding temp in 5 minutes when it is around 60 degrees outside.
This is at 5 psi pressure. Your probably take longer because on the hair dryer.