What is a charcoal retort?

In retorts, unlike traditional charcoal burning, the wood to be charred is isolated in an airtight vessel, and heated from a separate fire. The gasses that evolve in the pyrolitic process are used to heat the vessel further, which saves fuel and is much cleaner in terms of smoke emissions.

What is biochar retort?

A biochar retort Biomass (such as wood) will produce gas when heated without access to air. The re- tort drum is sealed except for the vent. It is placed inside a brick kiln to help hold in the heat. The loaded retort inside the kiln. Wood gas burns in self-sustaining reaction.

What is the capacity of the Exeter charcoal retort?

1.7 cubic metres
Retort chamber capacity – 1.7 cubic metres. Burn time approx. 8 hours depending on type of wood. Returns per burn approx.

How hot does a charcoal retort get?

Once the unit heated up to over 200 degrees Celsius, it started to put out visible gas which was sucked back into the fire and I assume burned. It also put out some sort of tar which was also burnt. Once it reached 300 degrees Celsius the gas coming from retort was clearly flammable and the fire started to roar.

What is the best wood for making charcoal?

Oak, Hazel, Chestnut, Maple, Apple are all examples of hardwood trees that make good charcoal for cooking. Wood for charcoal making should be well seasoned, not freshly cut green wood.

What temperature do you need to make charcoal?

Charcoal is made by heating wood or other organic materials above 400° C (750° F) in an oxygen-starved environment. The process, called pyrolysis, is exothermic – meaning it gives off heat once started.

Can I use lump charcoal as biochar?

A quick biochar can be made from a commercially available hardwood lump charcoal by the name “Cowboy Charcoal” and available at places like Ace Hardware and Lowe’s. You can also easily and cheaply make your own charcoal. After crushing, screen the biochar with ¼” hardware cloth.