Hi-Tech Charcoal Production?

[kalos1972]

Anyone have any solid information on some newer ways to make charcoal? I dont wanna do the traditional method, preferably soemthing more like the 2 drums I have seen on YouTube.

I'd like something a bit more technical if possible...

Suggestions?

[tomato204]

More technical? That's funny. Charcoal-making is a simple process- heat wood without letting it have enough air to burn. That's really all there ever was to it.

[kalos1972]

Perhaps I didn't word that properly. I am looking for some more information then a picture that shows 2 55-gallon drums and a stack of charcoal. :)

Perhaps something that explains how to design the drums for the most efficient use or even just a "How-To" guide explaining the process.

By technical I guess I mean I dont want to dig a hole, fill with wood, cover with dirt and come back in 3 days. :P

[DM]

http://www.twinoaksforge.com/BLADSMITHING/MAKING%20CHARCOAL.htm

DM

[keydl]

DM's web find is similar to what a neighbor did, he drilled hols in a couple of rows at the bottom and filled it with blocks of about 2x2x4 in or 6 in stock, lay it down with the holes down and break pallets to over 1/2 up the barrel, light the pallets and throw a scrap iron cover over it. Generally waited a couple of days in the summer, until cold in the winter.

[DiggingDogFarm]

http://www.twinoaksforge.com/BLADSMITHING/MAKING%20CHARCOAL.htm (http://www.twinoaksforge.com/BLADSMITHING/MAKING%20CHARCOAL.htm)

DM

The retort at that link is fancy and pretty, but totally wasteful, expensive and un-necessary.

Take a metal barrel 30 gallon or even 55 gallon with holes in the bottom. Stand up and pack together as tightly as possible pieces of hardwood that are similar in size. Light the top of the wood and let burn down until it stops gasifying. When it stops gasifying stop all combustion with some water.
That's the most efficient and cheapest way to make charcoal.

One on the members had something about it here several months ago.

It works.