Gauge of Steel for FireBox?

[mikemckinney]

Ahoy, hoy!

I am picking up a 275 Gal Oil Tank on Saturday that I will be constructing a RF Smoker from.

My question is:

What Gauge of Steel should I use for the FireBox?

I will be constructing a warming chamber atop the FireBox as well, using the same gauge of steel.

FireBox and warming chamber will both be insulated, so I will also need suggestion on insulating material.

Thanks!

 

[pgsmoker64]

The thicker the better.  1/4" works well.  If you go too thin you will need to line with fire brick or insulate the outside.

Good luck,

Bill

 

[mikemckinney]

Thanks Bill!

I was thinking of insulating the box anyway to allow all of the heat to be dumped into the cooking chamber.

Good idea or not?

Mike

 

[pineywoods]

I second the 1/4" or more

 

[oldschoolbbq]

!/4" is plenty for the inside, the outside skin can be lighter guage (being you have insul. material between them. I suggest using Sand as your insulation. Natural , cheap and when packed in the walls , will give an excellent insul. factor.(akin to Fire Brick...)

Just my cents worth.

 

[frosty]

The idea of the insulated fire box using sand is a great idea, and I hope to see photos of the progress. Really interesting design.

My smoker is 1/4" thick and it works fine in Houston's warm climate.  But being in Beaver Falls, you might want to consider thicker, IF you can move it. Mine has wheels on it, but is still tough to move around.

 Sounds great though, best of luck!!!