STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO THE FIRST BURN-IN
When it comes to using the Peax Torrid Stove in the backcountry, the first burn-in is an essential step that sets you up for success. This process ensures that your stove performs optimally by burning off any manufacturing residues and helping the metal retain its shape, making future setups easier. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly burn in your Torrid Stove before taking it on your next adventure.
WHY BURN-IN MATTERS
The first burn-in of your Torrid Stove is more than just a formality; it's a critical step for a couple of reasons:
1. Residue Removal: During the manufacturing process, oils and residues may be left on the stove’s materials. The burn-in process removes these impurities, ensuring that your stove operates cleanly and efficiently.
2. Memory Retention: When you burn in your stove, the metal retains a "memory" of its shape, which is particularly important for the stove pipe. This memory makes it much easier to set up your stove in the field, as the materials will naturally want to return to the shape they were burned in.
PREPARING FOR THE BURN-IN
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need:
- Your Torrid Stove, fully assembled
- The stove pipe
- Alcohol wipes or latex gloves (to prevent fingerprints)
- A safe outdoor space where you can conduct the burn-in
Start by unrolling the stove pipe. This can be a bit tricky, so take your time. The pipe will want to unroll naturally, but you should avoid bending it perpendicular to the way it unrolls, as this could create permanent creases. Instead, roll it at an angle, working from one corner until it’s fully rolled. This method helps to prevent those unwanted creases, which is crucial for the stove pipe's performance.
Once the pipe is rolled, attach the stove pipe rings to keep it in place. With the stove pipe assembled, you can now insert it into the TP and connect it to the stove.
TWO IMPORTANT TIPS BEFORE YOU BEGIN
1. Avoid Fingerprints: Titanium can permanently retain fingerprints once it’s heated. To avoid this, either wipe down the stove with alcohol wipes before starting the burn-in or wear latex gloves during assembly.
2. Don’t Overtighten: As the stove heats up during the burn-in, the metal expands. If you’ve overtightened any components, this expansion can cause warping. Assemble the stove securely but without overdoing it, allowing the materials to expand naturally.
STARTING THE BURN-IN
With everything assembled and ready, it’s time to start the burn-in. Begin by opening all the air control valves and ensuring that the damper and spark arrester are fully open. This maximizes airflow, which is essential for maintaining a strong, consistent fire.
For the fire itself, you can use a variety of fire starters. In this demonstration, pyro putty and a lighter are used. Start by placing the pyro putty in the back of the stove, near the flu, and ignite it. As the fire starts, add small twigs, gradually building up to thicker pieces of wood. The goal is to get a strong fire going that will burn consistently for about 30 minutes.
THE BURN-IN PROCESS
Once the fire is established, close the stove door and let it burn for around 30 minutes. This duration is key to ensuring that the metal retains the necessary memory and that any manufacturing residues are completely burned off.
During the burn, you’ll notice the titanium changing colors. This is a normal and even desirable effect, as titanium reacts to heat by developing unique hues of blues, purples, and swirls. This coloration is a sign that the burn-in process is working as intended.
FINISHING UP
After the burn-in has been completed, allow the stove to cool down completely. It’s important not to rush this process by using water or other cooling methods; let it cool naturally. Once the stove is cool to the touch, disassemble it, pack it up, and you’re all set for your next backcountry adventure.
The burn-in process might seem like an extra step, but it’s one that pays off in the long run. By taking the time to properly burn in your Peax Torrid Stove, you’re ensuring that it performs at its best, giving you reliable heat and cooking capability no matter where your adventures take you.
