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Post by ilovecob on Feb 22, 2008 21:45:15 GMT -8
I've finally started on my rocket stove! It's been a process getting all the parts together. I've got everything I need outside of some pumice and warm weather for cob. I posted some pictures of the project and will continue to as I go. Let me know if you have any feedback. Thanks, Michael organicarts.org/gallery/album/solunit-rocket/ |
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Post by Donkey on Mar 2, 2008 9:23:06 GMT -8
Mmmm.. That is one well made rocket stove!
The only things I can say is:
1) you will need to remove the earthbags (holding up the pipe) close to the stove. when it gets used for real, the bags will melt.
2) That's a long run of pipe there.. It looks likely to work just fine. Though on those odd days when the stove doesn't want to light cleanly, the primer box is pretty far from where the action is. Actually, on second thought I don't see a primer box inside the building. So you will have to go outside to deal with it.. Or just subbornly battle an obstinate stove till it finally gives in.
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Post by Donkey on Mar 2, 2008 9:31:19 GMT -8
oop!!
On third thought, I see that a primer box won't help you one bit...
Cool idea, putting the exhaust out the side like that. Kinda like a direct vent heater jobbie..
There is some use of a chimney, even a short one. Priming for one, also taking the little bit of smoke overhead and out of harms way...
Easy enough to retrofit if needed.. You gotta update us here as you use it.
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Post by ilovecob on Mar 2, 2008 15:39:39 GMT -8
During the test burn #1 there were all kinds of problems with the stove.
Smoke back-drafting, hard to light, a very windy day. Problems ( besides being put together haphazardly ) The space between the heat riser and the barrel was too short - 1 1/2". I made it 2 1/2". Also the top of the heat-riser was not level and a bit bumpy - creating drag. The exhaust pipe straight out the wall worked, ok, but since then I've added a T for clean out and priming and 4' of pipe for the vertical stack. I also insulated the hell out of it with pumice, which may or may not have made a difference.
After the modifications it purred. Lighting quickly. It seems very happy now. We'll see how it goes when the wind kicks up again, but it's better prepared this time.
Ya - going out side to prime is lame. Makes me think I should place another T in by the exterior wall for inside priming. I've also fantasized about a propane torch for priming, but that's another story.
Last night we really gave it a good solid burn. Boiled water for pasta, chicken soup and vegetables in a tinfoil wrap. I am so pleased.
When is somebody going to write the rocket stove cookbook anyway?
I have some more pics to post. I'll get them up as soon as possible.
I can't wait to start cobbing on the bench, but there are a few more things I'd like to do before then.
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