Starting a new build

[squirrel78]

Hey guys I'm starting my new build. I have most of the pit planned out,and am making an insulated fire box. I was wondering how much I can reduce the size of the box if it is insulated? The dimensions on the firebox are the inside measurements.

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• squirrel78
• May 5, 2016

 

[daveomak]

From looking at your drawing, you have more than doubled the CC from a standard smoker...  reducing the FB would reduce the BTU's available per "normal" reload cycle and you will have to increase the number of times to add fuel....  You will have fewer hot coals that produce clean heat and increase not so clean heat....  

I would almost double the size of the FB....

 

[squirrel78]

With 2 inches of insulation on each side of the FB I will have a lot less thermal loss to the outside air, I just don't know exactly how much more efficient it will be. Also the upright will have a closable baffle on it so it won't be in use during a regular smoke and the cook chamber will have its own stack. I will use the upright mainly as a drying cabinet for jerkys and dried sausages.