[TheForge] oops...Kaowool

[Steven Smith]

There are different temperature ratings for different products, all 
called Kaowool (or Durablanket or whatever). I'm sure Andy is getting 
the right product, but in general if you buy from a non-blacksmith 
source, you need to check which one they are selling you.

A quick use of Google found that Kaowool comes as PM, M, S, HD, HS and 
HS45. The "continuous temperature use limit" ranges from 2000 to 2400 F.

Durablanket comes as S, HP-S and 2600. "Recommended Operating 
Temperatures" range from 1800 to 2450 F. I've been very happy using 
Durablanket S, rated at 2150 F recommended.

Note that price generally varies according to temperature rating....

If you read the datasheets carefully, I suspect that the temperature 
ratings aren't to any standard comparing one company to another. I think 
your best bet is to go with a known product--either from a blacksmith 
supplier (specifically for a gas forge) or from a recommendation of what 
has worked for another smith (like Andy's below).

Steve

Andy Gladish wrote:
> Jerry, I don't know what part of the country you live in, but here by the
> seacoast I find Kaowool in the local marine supply place. They probably use
> it for insulating boat exhausts.
>
> Andy Gladish
>