Forge furnace, key aspects of construction and use

Anyone who wants to build a forge furnace should read the tips on the topic of ‘forge furnace, key aspects of construction and use’. The following article contains practical tips on how to build such a device.

For the construction of a forge, materials with a low thermal mass should be used. This will enable the forge furnace to store heat effectively. The choice of building materials for the foundations of this device is very important. They must be fully resistant to abrasion and high temperatures. This is particularly important if the furnace is used intensively and heavy pieces of metal are placed inside it, which will put a strain on its structure. It is also worth remembering that the forge hearth is extremely hot. In the Vitcas online store, you can find all kinds of building materials that will allow you to build a heating device such as a forge furnace. These include durable fireclay bricks, refractory adhesives and insulating mats.

How do I build a forge?

Start by building the firebox. The burner for the gas forge should be the right size. Fireclay bricks are essential for the construction of the firebox. A grate system must also be installed and the flue gas system must be correctly installed. This should be made of stainless steel. Every gas forge must be equipped with a support frame and a roof. The entire structure should be at least 1 metre away from buildings. The front of the furnace should be equipped with a hatch that can be opened with a lever to insulate the inner chamber and reduce heat loss.

Differences between gas and coal-fired forges

The forge furnace is the heart of any smithy, which is why its choice and construction are crucial for work efficiency. A gas furnace allows for high temperatures to be reached quickly and heat to be easily regulated, making it ideal for modern workshops. On the other hand, coal furnaces offer greater control over the intensity of the fire, which is appreciated by traditionalists. Regardless of the choice, it is crucial to use refractory materials such as fireclay bricks and high-temperature mortars, which ensure the durability and safety of the structure.