Fabkid33 wrote:I didn't end up buying the pipe . Don't always have alot of time on my hands my shop is very busy also i have alot of othet side projects that is why I would use a pipe and save some time but I also have a very good and cheap fab shop near me that has a big press break that can do 1/4 inch plate on 10 feet maybe i will have him bend me a inner and outer octago and I can weld them together or maybe use flat strap and weld it all together myself should I use 1/4 plate inner and 1/8 plate outer and what are these plates I should run on the inside and would love some ideas on firebox .
Disclaimer: i am a DIYer and no means a pro. I did however build a pit to my specifications with the aid of someone with experience.
I was joking on the octagon shape but after rereading your original post —since you own a weld business what better way to showcase your skills then with a unique And beautiful BBQ Pit smoker!! There are definitely some complexities with a double wall that could showcase your skill like the doors and firebox entry. Super excited for you! ( and me as I find this kind of thing super interesting)
With a double wall the paint scheme is endless and can really make it pop And unique! Maybe even use it as your business billboard! I can see it now “FabKid33 for all your welding needs...call 8675-309” :)
You have a press brake! Aww man that would have made my pit build so much easier and faster! Issue is i wasnt sure of what dimensions i wanted so i had to cut everything out. Now i know dimension And if ever build again would go press brake way.
For me i Place high value on a lighter pit for mobility, in my experience the cook chamber seldom rots (maybe others can validate/contest this statement) so you could go even lighter gauge especially if you go double wall. I used 14 gauge in my build for both walls mainly because ease of cutting. i cut everything in my garage with a skill saw and cutoff wheel ( felt sorry for the neighbors) my father in law 50+year exp as metal fabricator said it would definitely hold up and warned of some warping occurring during weld. I tried to skip weld to prevent warping but my welding was ugly and parts did warp.
I would use 1/8 inside box and 14gauge outside box if i built my pit again. I have a post titled “The Coffin” if you wanna see pics
If weight not an issue for you 1/4 inside plate would definitely make it a generational pass down heirloom. (I learned a lot from my father in law about metal). the outside wall is just a holder for insulation or if no insulation the space between walls would be insulation and would still prevent heat dissipation. I would go as light as you feel comfortable unless it is meant to stay outdoors to weather the elements.
Tidbit: My father in law built an 1/8 inch pit 30 years ago and it is still in great shape no holes but was in dryer West Texas and under tin roof most of its life. Maybe different story if in houston with the humidity.
Look forward to your posts on your bbq pit build adventure!
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