Wood finish for high heat applications

C

ChefBleu86

Joined
Jan 25, 2023
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17
I'm replacing a wooden wok handle for a family member after the previous one literally burnt off. What sort of finish is ideal for such a high heat application?

Just for further info- the handle did not catch fire. After many years of heavy use, the portion that attached to the metal pan got so charred that it just broke off.
 
The only high temp coating that comes to mind, I don't recommend.

That's the charcoal grill paint you can get at hardware stores or home remodel big box stores if you want to refinish your grill. Those paints are typically rated 500-1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Interestingly, automotive engine block paints seem to be rated to only 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

But personally I would hesitate to put paint (or any other film coating) on the wok handle lest the coating chip off & wind up in the food.

What species of wood are you using to make the new handle?
 
I'm reusing the remaining part of the old handle, which was bamboo, and attaching a block of some unlabeled hardwood I had at the end to match bolt length.
 
I asked Google for wok handle finish & it said to use an oil. I'm not sure how well bamboo will absorb oil. But I suspect that its oil recommendation is based off its response of hardwoods like oak that it recommended when I asked about wok handle woods.
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From Google AI compilation:

For a wok handle, the best finish is typically a thin layer of mineral oil or a food-safe oil like tung oil as it provides a protective barrier while still maintaining a natural look and feel, allowing for easy grip and preventing the wood from drying out.

Key points about finishing a wok handle:
Avoid harsh chemicals:
Do not use varnish, paint, or other finishes that may chip or flake off, especially when exposed to high heat.
Apply sparingly:
Apply a very thin layer of oil with a cloth, rubbing it in thoroughly and wiping off any excess.

Regular maintenance:
Re-apply a small amount of oil periodically to maintain the finish and prevent cracking.
 
Look at the wood you're using, different woods have different resistance to heat. I don't know where you are but since i'm in Australia i would look at ironbark
Also consider a spacer of a less thermally conductive material, not sure what off the top of my head
A shou sugi ban type finish around the front might also improve the heat resistance

Finally you might just have to consider it a disposable part, every decade it has to be replaced
 
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