by matt walker » Wed Oct 08, 2014 3:18 pm
Wiley, I've been using half barrels instead of flue pipe for a few years now. Not always, just another tool in the kit. They are free, can be built quickly, can have high mass or low mass coverings depending on the needs of the system, and form a durable arch form for the cob mass. Here's a video I made a few years ago....
I had the epiphany when I was trying to make thin, low mass benches for outdoor use. I was seeking quick response for heated outdoor seating, and all weather durability that didn't require the cob to maintain much structural strength. Since then, I've realized they have many, many applications. One of the best things I've discovered about them is they can function like bells, so they can be used to form a blind bench(dead end), and also used to eliminate flue pipe elbows as they can form a plenum.
Thanks Byron! I'm stoked to see how it goes, I've already been enjoying splitting wood into larger chunks. I didn't raise the barrel, I really don't have room as I'm pretty close to the ceiling as it is. So far, it's been running just fine. We shall see. Yeah, the top window is awesome for sure. That was a great thing to come out of the Montana gathering.
Here's where it sits this morning. That's not quite the final layout, I think I'm going add a bit more half barrel and kick the front flue run out a bit, but I should have it burning and starting to dry out this evening if I get off this computer. Not sure how I'll finish it yet, maybe just plaster?