oil tank arch anyone do it with side load?

[dgdm]

about to start cutting and installing my barrel stove kit door, wondering if it would make sense to do the door on the side, pluses would be that i would be able to get long lenghts of wood in, without having too much depth before hitting wall to force fire up to the pans, also side of tank is flat, front of tank is contoured, easier to fit to the sides, would also give me more room for an ash pan clean out on the front.

Would welcome any thoughts.

David

[Agent914]

I have made several barrel evaporators (quick builds) and always a front load never a problem loading wood. Unprotected they typically only lasted 2-3 seasons before rusting out.

If you search my Agent914 posting you will find a good diagram on the double boil with flame divertor, it was the best for boiling rate but when I added the outside hi-temp insulation wrap it worked fantastic but kills the barrel in 1 season....massive metal fatigue.

Paul