[TheForge] Water on your coal forge fire?

[xlch58 at swbell.net]

David,

My use seems to be pretty consistent with everyone else.  The one use of 
water for me that was not mentioned was cooling fine bits of a piece 
when heating adjacent parts.  Even with the best location, I still run 
into situations where I have a small diameter bit right next to 
something than needs real heat.  I have found even with carbon steels, I 
can cool -- not quench -- them with the judicious spray or sprinkle of 
water at the right point in the fire.    Of course now, I have moved to 
primarily gas, so I burn the whole piece at once rather than a bit at a 
time.

Charles

David E. Smucker wrote:

>Thanks for all of the great replies on my questions on the use of water on
>your coal.  These will be very useful as I put this article together.  I am
>still interested in other comments so this is in no way meant to shut off
>the discussion.  I am still waiting to hear what Bruce might think is going
>on in the chemistry of water on hot coal -- but for the most part I have the
>impression that Bruce doesn't get to "theforge" on the week end.
>
>A special thanks to Tom, for his thoughtful and in-depth reply -- most
>helpful.
>
>Dave Smucker  (see my original request below)
>
>  
>