1. Propane Forges: Construction
The primary components of a propane forge:
-Body
-Insulator
-Refractory
-Regulator
-Propane burner(s)

2. Propane Forges: Construction
-The body of a forge is normally constructed out of steel and acts as a housing for an insulator like kaowool. In order to protect the insulator, an additional layer of refractory cement, ceramic coating (ITC) or mizzou is applied to the inside of the forge.
Insulating materials like kaowool can be hazardous. Prolong exposure and breathing of the fibrous material can create severe respiratory problems. Always wear a face mask when handling the material and read the safety sheet. Please report any forge issues to the shop steward.

3. Propane Forges: Construction
-Regulators used in propane forges are rated for high pressure. For average use, a forge should be set to between 1 and 5 PSI.
Gauge
Tank Connector
Regulator
Tank Adapter
Propane Valve
-Gauge: Measures PSI from the tank to the burner(s). Note that this may not be the PSI of propane exiting the burner(s).
-Regulator: Controls the flow of propane via a ball valve and has an adjustable wheel/screw.
-Tank Connector: Reverse thread connector to the propane tank. This one has a safety inlet for automatic shut off if there is excessive pressure or temperatures greater than 240F.
-Tank Adapter: Adapter with external threads. This adapter is not needed for modern tanks.

4. Propane Forges: Construction
-There are a wide variety of propane burners used in forges. The most common is a simple type of burner called a Venturi style burner. Air is sucked into a large intake, mixed with propane in the burner and ignited at the end.
Burners depend on several variables making them very sensitive to operate. A burner must be adjusted manually to produce the optimal heat for forging.
-A good burner should produce a focused, blue, cone shaped fire.
-Most burners have an adjustable air intake to change the fuel-to-air ratio. A burner should produce a constant low roar and not a ‘sputtering’ sound.
-In addition, there may be valve(s) to adjust the flow of propane to the burner(s).