Garritt said:Trying to build a vacuum kiln using an old shipping container.
Internal dimensions. 19'3"x7'7"x7'9". The space inside will be about half full trying to figure out how big of a vacuum pump I need. About 565 cubic feet.
A vacuum kiln works by removing air and moisture from the wood in order to dry it faster and more evenly. The shipping container is sealed and a vacuum pump is used to create a low-pressure environment, which lowers the boiling point of water and allows it to evaporate from the wood at lower temperatures.
The main materials needed to build a vacuum kiln from a shipping container include a shipping container, vacuum pump, heating source, insulation, temperature and humidity sensors, and a control system. Other materials may be needed depending on the specific design and setup of the kiln.
Yes, most types of wood can be dried in a vacuum kiln. However, some species may require different drying times or temperatures, so it is important to research and adjust the kiln settings accordingly. Additionally, wood with high levels of resin or oil content may not be suitable for vacuum drying.
The amount of time it takes to dry wood in a vacuum kiln depends on several factors, including the type of wood, initial moisture content, and desired final moisture content. On average, wood can be dried in a vacuum kiln in 1-3 days, compared to weeks or months in a traditional kiln.
There are a few safety considerations when using a vacuum kiln, such as the potential for implosion if the container is not properly reinforced, and the risk of burns from the heating source. It is important to follow all safety guidelines and precautions when building and operating a vacuum kiln.