Chris Long on tue 21 aug 01
I am looking for information on the advantages and/or disadvantages of using
propane as compared to #2 fuel oil. I want to build a 30 cubic ft. updraft
cone 10 kiln. I have had experiences using this type on an upright Alpine,
however, natural gas is not avaliable in my area. With fuel prices as high
as they are I am looking to save as much firing time and money as possible. I
am unsure of the price of propane in my area, however, I can buy fuel oil at
cost. I would also appreciate any information on websites or books with
directions on how to build either type of kiln.
Sincerely,
Chris L. (Liberty, KY)
Marcia Selsor on wed 22 aug 01
Chris,
I worked with #2 diesel fuel for several years with a converted
household furnace burner and three nozzles. Info is in the Studio Potter
book. Also there is Dennis Parks idea for using used oil. He gets oil
from macDonald's, and other places and fires with that for free. His
book on Oil firing is being republished by Azners. Dennis lives in
Tuscarora popualtion about 8 in the winter. 50 miles from Elko Nevada.
Any smoke his kiln produces doesn't annoy his neighbors two of which are
other potters and include his son, Ben.
#2 fuel oil is hotter (more BTUs that propane) than propane. Old crank
case oil is hotter yet.The problem is getting it to burn. Furnace
burners have a spark from electrodes directly in the path of the #2 fuel
oil spray. The oil is pumped at 100 lbs. pressure. The furnace burner
has a pump and motor on it. Secondary air must be eliminated in early
parts of the firing to avoid "clinker" buildup. This is a cabonized
growth that builds if the oil isn't burning well. It is amazing stuff
but inhibits the whole operation. A simple oil filter keeps the burner
from getting clogged. Once red heat is achieved, fuel oil goes really
fast. Great reductions with it too.
Propane is cleaner but more expensive.
Marcia Selsor in Montana
Chris Long wrote:
>
> I am looking for information on the advantages and/or disadvantages of using
> propane as compared to #2 fuel oil. I want to build a 30 cubic ft. updraft
> cone 10 kiln. I have had experiences using this type on an upright Alpine,
> however, natural gas is not avaliable in my area. With fuel prices as high
> as they are I am looking to save as much firing time and money as possible. I
> am unsure of the price of propane in my area, however, I can buy fuel oil at
> cost. I would also appreciate any information on websites or books with
> directions on how to build either type of kiln.
>
> Sincerely,
> Chris L. (Liberty, KY)
>
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--
Marcia Selsor
selsor@imt.net
http://www.imt.net/~mjbmls
http://www.imt.net/~mjbmls/May2001.html
http://www.imt.net/~mjbmls/Tuscany2001.html
http://www.imt.net/~mjbmls/Gallery.html
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