Forced Air Upgrade for the Gas Forge

 

For about the last year I have been wanting to make this video/article.  Forced Air upgrade to my gas forge has been a game changer in getting more work done, more efficiently, and cheaply.  

 

I ordered the majority of the parts off of Amazon, but you can get them at most any hardware store.  You just need the following items (does not have to be exact):

3-Way Air Vent Duct Connector (High Temperature Resistance/Flame retardant) - I chose a Y connecter that had dampers so I could control the air flow between the high and low settings of the dryer.  Plus if I only use one burner with I do the majority of the time, I can shut off all air flow to the second burner.

2" ID to 3.0" OD Exhaust Reducer Adapter Stainless Steel 2PCS - I went with stainless steel as they will be touching my burners and 2 inches ID fits almost perfect, just enough room to easily slide on and off.

3-Inch by 2-Inch Adapter - this piece connected my hair dryer to the Y connecter.

Flexible 3 Inch Aluminum Ducting Dryer Vent Hose for HVAC - There may be better vent hose, as I have already burned a hole in mine from it getting too close to the forge body.  I just used some vent-tape to patch it up.

Appropriate sized duct clamps, I ordered the hose that came with two clamps, and I used that closest to the burners.  I used gorilla tape for the Y connector and hair dryer since they are not being exposed to extreme temps.

Any cheap hair dryer will work.  I have seen people use leaf blowers, small bbq/fan blowers, etc.  There is no specific requirement to use a hair dryer.

You can obviously choose other fittings for your forge, this worked well for mine.  I typically get double the amount of gas use when using the forced air as it, allows me to run hotter and longer at lower PSI for the gas.  I can even get my forge up to welding temps way faster.  

Total cost should be anywhere from $35 to $50 depending on what parts/upgrades you choose.  I hope this helps you in your blacksmithing journey.