tea light stove

[GiroToGo]

I am using a tea light stove. If I put insulation in the tin, would that improve the performance or extend the burn time?

[zelph]

I am using a tea light stove. If I put insulation in the tin, would that improve the performance or extend the burn time?

Yes, it'll improve efficiency by reducing the rate of evaporization for a more complete burn. The burn time will be extended depending on the density of the insulation and how it's packed into the container. Same holds true to all containers used for stoves that use insulation/fuel absorbing material.

I love giros, not to go, on the spot, no cooling off, the juicer the better. OhhhhMy!!!!!!!! they taste good

[GiroToGo]

So...is it better to pack the insulation tighter or loose?

[oops56]

So...is it better to pack the insulation tighter or loose?

Pack it in with a jack hammer No just lay it in.

[DarenN]

somewhere between hard-packed and puffy-loose seems to work best. it kinda depends on the exact type of filler you are using. i've been using Kao-wool in a lot of burners and found that it doesn't like to be compressed more than its natural state. too much compression and it won't let go of the fuel. whatever you use; a little experimenting will get you a burner you will be happier with than just an open tin cup.

Daren........

[zelph]

Pack it tight, if you don't like the performance take it out and redo it. Experiment and see how it differs. Oops56 found that Tiki Wick replacement wicks work great when they are cut and positioned verticle in the tin. Cut them with a single edge razor blade.

[GiroToGo]

Here's another question, I've only gotten the tealight stove to bring 1.5 cups of water to a rolling boil. 2 cups was hot with bubbles, but not rolling boil. How do you guys do it? Can it be doine. The tealight only holds about .5 oz. I'm using denatured alcohol, would HEET work better?

[DarenN]

.5 fluid ounce of denatured should get it done. all you need to do is slow down the burn time. that's why we use insulation/wicking material.

it should be easier for you to reach that ellusive 1/2oz/2cup boil with DA. it has a higher BTU potential than methyl hydrate.

Daren.....

[GiroToGo]

I have insulation in it. it's not loose, but it's not jam packed either. Any other suggestions?

[DarenN]

try a screen over the top.
like this:


Daren.......