[TheForge] Chip forge

[Steve Smith]

Jerry Frost wrote:

> Spheres will make for the least restriction in flame flow but provides 
> the least surface area/volume ratio of any shape so heat transfer in and 
> out will be minimum. Making spheres will I think be the most hassle as 
> well.
> 
> Gravel like chips will be pretty easy to produce and having a high 
> surface area/volume ratio will provide good heat transfer. Like I say 
> making chips should be pretty straight foreward. Choose the refractory 
> of your choice, ram, roll or cast it to the desired thickness, say 1/2". 
> Let it dry, set, etc. and break it up till it passes a 1/2" seive. 
> Lastly fire them like ceramic, using your chip forge of course. <grin>

Frosty, I've always heard that at these temps heat transfer was mostly 
radiative. Now that may be in relation to convection rather than 
conduction, I don't know. If it is radiative, shape and surface area 
doesn't matter (to heat transfer). I think maybe some experimentation is 
in order (not that I'll actually manage any...).

Steve