[Stoves] Somewhat urgent question? Interior ross sectional area (Mike Hatfield)

[Mike Hatfield]

Dear Charlie,

The cross sectional area rule is just a rule of thumb.  What we really want
is to force the flue gases as close to the "to be heated surface" as
possible while keeping a vigorous burn and flow velocity.   How we can do
that is determined by (1) the vertical combustion chamber
size/height/material/temperature (adding draft), the horizontal placha heat
transer area/material (reducing draft), the chimney
height/material/temperature (adding draft) and any other draft adding or
subtracting parts of the stove.   Every stove will be different so I just do
my best to keep the cross sectional area constant but let the particular
stove tell me if I have done a good enough job.

Good luck,

Mike

-- 
Mike Hatfield
Appropriate Technology Instructor/Consultant
Aprovecho Research Center

Statistically, the probability of any one of us being here is so small that
you'd think the mere fact of existing would keep us all in a contented
dazzlement of surprise     -Lewis Thomas