28 replies to this topic

[SideGlance]

So i made some charcoal using this method last weekend using split pine 2x4's i am new to the forum and this hobby and wanted some input on this method thanks guys

[mikeee]

SideGlance,

Looks good, important part is stopping the combustion of the charcoal at the end of the cook.
The method you are using is the retort method which requires an external heat source.
You can also cook pine splits with the TLUD method which does not require an external heat source.
Both methods will get you good quality charcoal if you stop the cook process at the right time.
Letting it cook too long with access to combustion air will turn the charcoal to ash.

[TYRONEEZEKIEL]

White pine 2x4's are the greatest way to learn charcoal making process. I will say from plenty of experience that its worth it to split them in half to at least 2x2. Also make sure to not over pack the retort. Plenty of space is crucial. I have had several batches of charcoal have wooden centers because of these 2 reasons.

Another great thing about white pine is that it make gorgeous, lush sparks with TT or C8 stars. It also makes toned down BP which isn't too powerful to get out of hand.

Keep on track doing this. This is a great method and it is exactly what I use.

[SideGlance]

i used a coffee can with 4 layers of tin foil on top with a few small holes punched in the foil... next time i will buy the paint can.. for willow charcoal will a weeping willow work?

[mikeee]

Read up on the TLUD cooker method, easy and cheap way to cook charcoal.
A paint can and 6x4 reducer is all you need.
The solid paint can lid goes onto the paint can when the wood is done cooking.
Stopping air flow to the cooked wood is the key to really good quality charcoal.
I started with a 1-gallon can which worked good, I now use a 5-gallon paint can to increase the production rate.

[SideGlance]

going to have my first test shoot this weekend ill know better on monday if i did everything right

[boule]

for willow charcoal will a weeping willow work?

Yes, will work.

[longbeard]

great

[dagabu]

Yes, will work.

Very well, sparks are fine but charcoal from willow is nice and fast.

[tom27229]

what is the best method to determine the optimun 'cook time' using the TLUD method?  looks like a fine line between 'done just right' and ashes.

[Bobosan]

Tom,

 

Easiest way is taking a piece of masking tape and placing it directly on the can vertically (top to bottom).  As the TLUD cooks down the tape will burn down too and give you a visual reference of completion.  Sometimes you can also hear the roar as it cooks and this will subside at the end of the burn.

[dagabu]

Tom,

 

Easiest way is taking a piece of masking tape and placing it directly on the can vertically (top to bottom).  As the TLUD cooks down the tape will burn down too and give you a visual reference of completion.  Sometimes you can also hear the roar as it cooks and this will subside at the end of the burn.

 

Outstanding idea!  The gasses also drop off almost completely when its done, the smoke disappears as well.  

[Bobosan]

 

Outstanding idea!  The gasses also drop off almost completely when its done, the smoke disappears as well.  

 

Gotta give credit where credit is due....the tape idea was from one of Ned Gorski's videos on TLUD.

 

Using pine shavings I rarely see any smoke at all.  The popping of the sheet metal as the burn dies down is another audible indicator you are close to done.

[fredjr]

Just because something is in one of Ned's videos doesn't mean he came up with the idea...

[Bobosan]

You're correct. Never said it was his idea, just thought I'd mention where I found the idea.

Edited by Bobosan, 06 August 2014 - 12:40 PM.

[dagabu]

Just because something is in one of Ned's videos doesn't mean he came up with the idea...

 

Easy there sparky!  Bobsan just got the idea from Nski's video. 

[tom27229]

tape idea sounds great!   thanks Bobosan!

[fredjr]

sparky??? sorry but, LMAO...

Edited by fredjr, 07 August 2014 - 11:58 PM.

[Dean2015]

Thanks really nice Tutorial

[MetalNeko]

I have a lot of access to pine and spruce trees where I live. I've heard pine is pretty good. Any idea how spruce compares?