Stainless vertical propane build questions (standard flow)

[buz914]

I'm doing the legwork on a stainless vertical propane smoker. 

Question is what is a good distance from the burner to the wood chip tray?

Also this thing is rather large 18.8 cubic feet, any suggestions on burner size(btu)?

Buz

 

[buz914]

Sorry if I'm asking dumb questions, but please humor me.

I am gonna build stainless racks with a 3/4" angle frame, what is the best size flat expanded metal to use?  I would like to use the thinnest material without worry of a sag.  It's gonna be 18"x24".  Also thinking about the percent of open area the expanded sheet has(don't want to block the flow of smoke through multiple racks)

What seems to work for you guys?

Buz

 

[berninga87]

I wouldn't think you'd have to worry about the smoke making it around everything. I would just go check out whatever expanded metal is available to you and do a bend test with your hands to figure out what you feel works best for you. As far as the other questions, I cant really help you. I build a vertical smoker but it's all charcoal and wood fueled. Hopefully someone will be along soon with answers for you, but I can tell you they will most likely want pictures of whatever you have so far to give accurate suggestions, so if you have any please post them! Good luck!

 

[shoneyboy]

Buz914, what I use for expanded metal is ¾” x #9, my trays are 23 ¾” x 23 ¾” then I welded a ¾” x ¾” angle iron frame to support it….I can take some pictures if you would like to see what I am talking about !?!?

 

[raygunter]

Question is what is a good distance from the burner to the wood chip tray?
Also this thing is rather large 18.8 cubic feet, any suggestions on burner size(btu)?

This is burner that I am using and my smoker is about 35 cubic ft. 

Its available from NH Northern and is not expensive.  Three valves gives lots of control.

For a chip tray I use a iron skillet set right on the burner.

You can view mine at this thread

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/119411/new-guy-with-new-house