Fire Types - SBI Escape 2100 Mode D'emploi

Report prepared for Guillaume Thibodeau-Fortin (Stove Builder International Inc.) on
6/26/2019 7:45:42 AM
1 - INSTALLATION MANUAL SERIES 3.5 ENGLISH
As the air intake is reduced, the burn rate decreases. This has the effect of distributing the
thermal energy of the fuel over a longer period of time. In addition, the flow rate of exhaust
through the appliance and flue pipe slows down, which increases the duration of the energy
transfer of the exhaust gases. As the air intake is reduced, the flame slows down.
If the flames diminish to the point of disappearing, the air intake has been reduced too early in
the combustion cycle or the wood used is too wet. If the wood is dry and the air control is used
properly, the flames should decrease, but remain bright and stable.
On the other hand, too much air can make the fire uncontrollable, creating very high temperatures in
the unit as well as in the chimney and seriously damaging them. A reddish glow on the unit and on the
chimney components indicates overheating. Excessive temperatures can cause a chimney fire.
5.7

Fire Types

Using the air intake control is not the only way to match the appliance heat output to the desired
temperature in the house. A house will need far less heating in October than in January to
maintain a comfortable temperature. Filling the firebox full in fall weather will overheat the space.
Otherwise, the combustion rate will have to be reduced to a minimum and the fire will be smoky
and inefficient. Here are some suggestions for building fires suitable for different heating needs.
5.7.1 Flash Fire
To build a small fire that will produce a low heat output, use small pieces of firewood and load
them crisscross in the firebox. The pieces should only be 3" to 4" in diameter. After raking the
coals, lay two pieces parallel to each other diagonally in the firebox and lay two more across
them in the other direction. Open the air control fully and only reduce the air after the wood is
fully flaming.
This kind of fire is good for mild weather and should provide enough heat for up to four hours.
Small fires like this are a good time to use softer wood species and avoid overheating the house.
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Stove Builder International Inc. | 44826 | Rev: May 31 2019 2:49PM | Uncontrolled Copy
Figure 4: Air Intake Control
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Installation and operation manual - 3.5 Series
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