How to Forge With Charcoal
Metal forging has been a common technique for manipulating metal for centuries. Using charcoal as a fuel was a traditional method for providing the necessary heat to make metal more malleable. Forging creates a stronger steel than pouring due to the reheating that is required, combined with the compression of it through forming with a hammer and anvil. Although a relatively simple process, forging is an art best honed with a lot of practice.
Things You'll Need
- Charcoal
- Kiln or stove
- Fan
- Metal
- Magnet
- Tongs
- Hammer
- Anvil
- Protective clothing
Instructions
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1
Light a fire using some paper to get the charcoal burning in your stove.
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2
Keep a fan blowing fresh air over the fire. Charcoal produces a lot of ash, which prevents the fire from getting sufficiently hot. Keeping air blowing over the fire feeds oxygen into it and blows away any built up ash.
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3
Place the metal you wish to form into the fire until it becomes red hot. Hold a magnet to the metal; if the magnet is attracted, leave it in the fire a while longer. If it is not, the metal is ready.
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4
Remove the metal item from the fire using tongs. Form it by striking the metal item with a heavy hammer against an anvil. Experiment with different edges and surfaces on the anvil to form your item into different shapes. Put it back into the fire when it cools to a black color to reheat.
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5
Add charcoal to the fire whenever possible to ensure enough fuel is present to maintain maximum temperatures. The fan helps the charcoal burn faster, requiring more frequent resupply.
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Tips & Warnings
Barbecue charcoal is less effective for forging due to its high ash production.
Always wear appropriate safety clothing, including eye protection, a leather apron and gloves and steel-toed boots.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images
