New to the site and first build

[Rumblefishstix]

Gents and ladies, I've been lurking for a while during a search for some free materials to build a RF smoker. I finally found an old tank off a job we are doing and decided I'd take the plunge. I've attached several pictures. I have a question on whether or not to utilize a 24" round pipe for the firebox as that would need to be roughly 40" long to equal out on my calculations. Any advice would be greatly appreciated (sidenote a 36"x24"x24" box would also cover calculations). Pictures will continue to be posted throughout the build.

 

[dirtbikeriderx]

Looks like that will be quiet the rig. Looking forward to seeing it's progress.

 

[Rumblefishstix]

So tonight was rather uneventful and a few set backs. Fought the plasma gun for a few hours after work, but did manage to get both legs cut. Tomorrow the shop is gonna cut my hinges, so we'll cut the door. Decided for ease of installation to go with a 36"x24"x24" firebox. The round pipe I thought was 24" is actually only 20" so that would stretch it out to a point almost the same length as the cooking chamber. I did settle on a color though Grabber Green. I think I got a free trailer as well. I'll have some pics after tomorrow night when we get the door opened up.

 

[Rumblefishstix]

Well this was today’s work. I ordered the 1/4 plate for the firebox, should be here Monday and I’ll have my guys run it through the plasma table so it’s ready for construction. This weekend’s tasks are to clean the cuts up since the plasma cuts weren’t super smooth, then clean the outside of the tank up. I may get frisky and throw the legs on it too. Any thoughts or comments are greatly appreciated.

 

[Rumblefishstix]

Advice for the next build. Send the tank to get media blasted prior to cutting on it..........

 

[Rumblefishstix]

Question for everyone any advice on the door straps tweaking the door and how to get the curve back in the door? Right now my thought is heat and possibly lots of it. It seems like it’s just the 4 corners.

 

[Rumblefishstix]

Well progress is being made. Question what’s a good rule of thumb for fire grate level in the firebox?

 

[kmmamm]

If the straps are already welded on, the only real solution is to apply brute force. Most home fabricators end up using hydraulic jacks, blocks and chains. On your next build, try shaping the straps before you attach them to the door. Regarding fire grate height, I have found a minimum of 3” works well for mid sized units like the one you are building. On larger builds, 500 gal and up) I increase the space up to 8” to accommodate the larger fires. I use 3/16x1.25” smooth bar grate for the fire grate. Some might say that is overkill, but it retains its shape well and the larger openings help keep excessive ash from building up on top of the grate,
restricting air flow to the fire

 

[Rumblefishstix]

Today’s pictures

 

[Rumblefishstix]

Well a potential covid case at work has cut down on production. Next week however we should be good to go and hopefully over the long weekend, I can get some of the knick knack stuff done, like the chimney and log rack and grates.