Steel for DIY Fire Pit - Advice Needed

[dragoneggs]

https://www.facebook.com/willowhave...4164593265079/981371361877728/?type=1&theater

Wow!!! Thanks for posting Larry. These are awesome.

 

[Raspy]

I built a very nice pit a few years ago with a 3/8" wall thickness, 42" pipe, mild steel weld cap. Then I rolled on a 3/4" sch. 40 black pipe around the perimeter and welded on three pipes for legs. The bottom sits about 8" off the ground.

This thing will last a lifetime and works very well.

 

[elcaro]

Its been a while since your post so not sure if your still looking to build one like the picture you posted. The original one of these is made from 1/4 inch mild steel I believe. I am building something similar with 1/4 inch mild steel and it is pretty heavy (prob 250lbs when complete). The heft will make sure it doesn't walk off too easily. Also, you really shouldn't have to worry about the steel warping when you have a fire going in it if you use 1/4 or 3/16. The metal will get hot, but not enough to warp this thickness of steel. The next one I build will probably be made from 3/16 inch.

Yes, you will need a plasma cutter and be able to weld, but its not a difficult project with the right tools. Just use some cardboard to work through your pattern. The general size is 40 inch square. If you cut the two main pieces to 40" by 24" you will have a height of 14" without the "stand" pieces once you attache the sides. You can then make the stand whatever height you want to meet your needs.

Props to the original artist for inspiration. The one I am making is similar, but modified for my needs.

Hope this helps...

Elcaro.

** this might be better in the welding forum but it looks like i can't delete this one **


we've been through a few commercially-produced cheap fire pits - they're junk and just don't last. i'm looking for something bigger and a bit more utilitarian for the next round. after doing some shopping around i found that there does seem to be a niche market for heavy duty fire pits but they are expensive and for obvious reasons need to be found locally.

so, *considering* building my own. i like the idea of something like this built to about 4 ft. square.

View attachment 401565

so the first obvious question is: what to build it from? (type/thickness of steel) what can withstand the temperatures of a fire and being left outside? stainless is out for cost reasons and i really don't mind the look of the rust patina.

access to plasma/welding equipment and expertise can be assumed available. i'm an amateur but know my way around a bit.

help from those with experience greatly appreciated. thanks!

 

[Al 2]

These look great to me. Made from 3/16" thick propane tanks. CAUTION. I don't know the safe way to cut a propane tank so they don't explode so get expert advice if you plan on making your own.
Look here: Muskoka Fire Pits
Al