Vivian Marlowe
There are many DIY tutorials available online for creating a copper coil stove, also known as a beverage-can stove. These stoves can be used for cooking or boiling water, especially while camping or in emergency situations. The stove is small and lightweight, making it easy to transport. It can also be used as a replacement for an electric stove in case of a power outage. The main components of a copper coil stove are a single portion preserve jar, a piece of copper tubing, and a wick. The stove can run on any type of alcohol, with some people recommending denatured alcohol or rubbing alcohol as a cheap option. However, it is important to note that pressurized stoves, such as those that use kerosene or Coleman fuel, can be more dangerous than non-pressurized alcohol stoves.
Characteristics and Values of Alcohol for a Copper Coil Stove
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Alcohol | Denatured alcohol, rubbing alcohol, or any type of alcohol |
| Fuel Efficiency | Low heat content compared to WG, butane, or propane |
| Boil Time | 400ml of 14C water boiled in 4:47 using 10g of fuel |
| Fuel Port | Can be closed with an "expandable drain plug" or sealed with epoxy |
| Wicking Material | Paper towels, cotton, cigarette butts, carbon felt, or mop string |
| Safety | Pressurized stoves are more dangerous than non-pressurized stoves |
| Construction | Copper tubing, JB weld, brass compression fittings, vent valve, orifice, wicks |
| Size | Small enough to be transported easily |
| Cost | A 12oz bottle of rubbing alcohol costs around $1 |
| Ignition | Match, lighter, or small stick lighter |
| Alternative Fuels | Kerosene, Coleman fuel, paraffin oil, higher molecular weight alcohols, olive oil, coconut oil |
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What You'll Learn
- Denatured alcohol is a fuel option for copper coil stoves
- A pressurised stove is more dangerous than a non-pressurised alcohol stove
- A copper coil stove can be made at home using a beverage can
- A wick is used to bring the alcohol up to the top of the tubing
- A cork can be used to turn off the stove by blocking the jet
Denatured alcohol is a fuel option for copper coil stoves
The basic principle behind a copper coil alcohol stove is to use a priming fire to heat and vaporize the fuel, which is absorbed into wicks. The vapor expansion creates pressure in the copper coil, and at the bottom of the loop is a small hole, or orifice, from which the vapor shoots up between the top two coils. Here, it mixes with oxygen and combusts, producing heat that travels down the copper tubing and continues to heat the wicks. As the wicks vaporize the fuel, they dry out and absorb more fuel from the tank, making the process self-sustaining.
To enhance the stove's performance, some builders suggest using a wick material such as paper towels, cotton, or carbon felt, which helps draw the alcohol up to the top of the tubing where it is heated. Others recommend adding a windscreen to improve efficiency and decrease boil time. Additionally, a higher boiling fuel with better energy density, such as paraffin oil or higher molecular weight alcohols, can be used in copper coil stove designs.
While copper coil alcohol stoves are interesting and useful, they do have some safety concerns. Pressurized stoves, for example, can be more dangerous than non-pressurized alcohol stoves. It is important to carefully follow instructions and take the necessary precautions when building and using these stoves to ensure safety.
Overall, denatured alcohol is a viable fuel option for copper coil stoves, and with the right materials and knowledge, individuals can create their own efficient and portable stove for cooking or boiling water during camping trips or in emergency situations.
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A pressurised stove is more dangerous than a non-pressurised alcohol stove
Alcohol stoves are a popular choice for those seeking an alternative to propane stoves, which some consider dangerous due to their explosive potential. While alcohol stoves offer a safer option, it is important to understand the differences between pressurised and non-pressurised variants to ensure safe usage.
Non-pressurised alcohol stoves, such as the Origo brand, are commonly used on boats and do not require priming, making them safer than their pressurised counterparts. These stoves utilise denatured alcohol, also known as methyl hydrate, which can be purchased from hardware stores. Denatured alcohol is inexpensive and burns fairly cleanly, although it should not be ingested as it contains toxic chemicals.
On the other hand, pressurised alcohol stoves have an internal chamber that pressurises heated alcohol into vapour, resulting in a powerful flame and fast boil times. This type of stove can burn different varieties of alcohol, including ethanol, denatured alcohol, and methanol, which are readily available at hardware stores and gas stations. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when handling pressurised stoves due to their nearly invisible flames and the risk of explosion if not properly ventilated.
The main advantage of a pressurised stove over a non-pressurised one is increased efficiency and faster boiling times. However, this increased efficiency comes at the cost of safety. The higher pressure and invisible flame of a pressurised stove can pose a greater risk of burns and fires. Additionally, the process of refuelling a pressurised stove can be more complex and time-consuming, requiring careful handling to avoid spills or accidents.
In conclusion, while both types of stoves have their advantages and disadvantages, a pressurised stove is generally more dangerous than a non-pressurised alcohol stove due to its higher pressure, invisible flame, and potential for explosions if not properly ventilated. When choosing between the two, it is essential to prioritise safety and opt for a stove that suits your specific needs and experience level.
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A copper coil stove can be made at home using a beverage can
A copper coil stove, also known as a beverage-can stove, can be made at home using a beverage can. This compact and efficient stove can be built using readily available materials such as a canning jar, small copper tubing, a pipe for wrapping the coil, a wicking material, sand, and JB Weld for sealing. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build your own copper coil alcohol stove:
Materials Required:
- Canning jar
- Small copper tubing
- Pipe for wrapping the coil
- Wicking material (cloth or cotton)
- Sand
- JB Weld
- Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol or denatured alcohol
Construction Process:
- Fill the copper tubing with sand, ensuring it is tightly packed and reaches the top of the tubing.
- Bend the copper tubing into a loop and flatten both sides.
- Cut a vent hole down the centre of the looped coil using a small drill bit. This hole allows air to mix with the alcohol, creating a steady flame.
- Place the copper coil on the lid of the canning jar and mark the required length. Cut off any excess coil legs to ensure the coil fits inside the jar.
- Drill holes in the lid of the jar for the copper coil to fit through. Use a drill bit that is the same size as the coil for a snug fit.
- Insert the copper coil through the holes in the lid and secure it in place with JB Weld to prevent air leaks.
- Insert the wicking material through the drilled holes in the copper coil.
- Pour Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol or denatured alcohol into the jar carefully, avoiding any spillage.
- Securely close the jar with the lid and coil assembly. Wipe the sides of the coil with alcohol to remove any excess fuel or dirt for a cleaner burn.
- To prime the stove for its first burn, heat the copper coil with a propane torch. This vaporises the alcohol, creating a gas-air mixture that will burn steadily.
Notes:
- This stove can be easily transported and used for cooking or boiling water during camping, in emergencies, or when power outages occur at home.
- Always exercise caution when handling and burning alcohol, and ensure proper ventilation.
- Experiment with different types of wicking materials, such as paper towels, cotton, or cigarette butts, to find the most efficient option.
- For additional safety, create a windscreen that extends up the sides to increase efficiency and decrease boil time.
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A wick is used to bring the alcohol up to the top of the tubing
A copper coil stove is a lightweight stove that can be used for camping and backpacking. The stove can be made from a single portion preserve jar, a piece of copper tubing, and a wick. The copper coil stove burns alcohol, and a wick is used to bring the alcohol up to the top of the tubing.
The copper coil stove works by using a wicking cloth to bring the alcohol up to the top of the copper tubing, where it is heated by a flame below. The alcohol then vaporizes and escapes through small holes in the tubing, where it is burned, producing heat that maintains the cycle. This design is known as an \"open jet\" or \"standard\" stove and is often used in backpacking and camping due to its lightweight and efficient design.
To create a copper coil stove, you will need a jar or container for the alcohol fuel, a length of copper tubing, and a wick. The wick can be made from various materials, including fiberglass insulation, cotton, paper towels, or even cigarette butts. The wick is inserted into the copper tubing, with the excess left at the bottom to absorb the fuel. When the stove is lit, the alcohol is drawn up through the wick to the top of the tubing, where it vaporizes and burns, producing a flame.
The advantage of using a wick in a copper coil stove is that it helps to regulate the flow of alcohol, preventing spills and reducing the risk of flames spreading if the stove is knocked over. The wick also acts as insulation, helping to contain the heat and improve the stove's efficiency. Additionally, wicks can be used to support pots or hold stove parts together, providing additional functionality to the stove.
It is important to note that when choosing a wick material, it should be rated for high-heat applications to ensure safety. Some materials, such as closed-cell foam, release poisonous gases when burned and should be avoided. Always exercise caution when working with flammable materials and open flames.
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A cork can be used to turn off the stove by blocking the jet
Alcohol stoves are a popular DIY project, with many people making their own stoves from copper coils. Denatured alcohol is a popular choice of fuel for these stoves, although some people have experimented with other fuels, such as biodiesel, corn oil, and various oils.
When using a copper coil stove, or any alcohol stove, it is important to be cautious as the flame can be almost invisible in daylight. It is recommended to use common sense when choosing a spot to cook and to avoid flammable materials. Some people have made snuffers for their stoves, while others have used a cork to block the jet and extinguish the flame.
A cork can be used to turn off an alcohol stove by blocking the jet. This is a simple and effective method to extinguish the flame and turn off the stove. When the cork is jammed into the copper tube, it blocks the flow of fuel, causing the flame to go out. This is a safe and convenient way to turn off the stove, especially if you do not have a snuffer or other means of extinguishing the flame.
To use a cork to turn off your copper coil stove, simply jam the cork into the loop of the copper tube when you are ready to extinguish the flame. This will block the jet and cut off the fuel supply, causing the flame to go out. Make sure you have a cork that fits snugly into the tube to ensure the stove is properly turned off.
It is important to note that some alcohol stoves do not have an off switch, so it is crucial to take safety precautions when using these stoves. Always be cautious when handling fuel and flames, and ensure you have a safe and controlled environment for your stove. Additionally, always check the regulations of your destination before taking your stove with you, as some recreation areas prohibit the use of alcohol stoves.
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Frequently asked questions
Any type of alcohol can be used, but some recommend using denatured alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is also an option and can be purchased cheaply.
Pressurized stoves are more dangerous than non-pressurized stoves. A cork can be used to block the jet and put out the flame.
A windscreen that comes up the sides can increase efficiency and decrease boil time.
Kerosene, Coleman fuel, paraffin oil, olive oil, and coconut oil are possible alternatives.
YouTube channels such as Tetkoba and Instructables have tutorials and tips on creating copper coil alcohol stoves.
