What types of barbecues are there?
The most common thing is a barbecue made from a cylinder with your own hands. It is made in 3-4 hours, because there is no lid or additional functions. What else can be made from a gas cylinder? Most often, more modern options are chosen, because they all differ in only a few details and the required manufacturing time.
- Barbecue . In the process, part of the balloon wall is cut off and attached to a loop. The fireboxes act as windows through which coals are placed. A DIY gas cylinder kebab maker is perfect for true lovers of juicy meat and aromatic vegetables. 15 minutes of frying and a complete lunch for the family is ready!
- Smokehouse. The most important difference from a standard barbecue is that it is 100% sealed. Pieces of pipe are made on top that will be chimneys. Before starting use, the grill needs to be heated 3-5 times. Unlike the previous option, the smokehouse is not as popular. But in vain! Smoked meat can easily compete with kebab.
- Smoker includes three types of cooking meat on a propane grill in one. During production it is necessary to use 3-4 cylinders of different volumes. The thing is very practical and convenient, but making it is not so easy.
Do you have a rich imagination? Then you can safely create aesthetic legs, arms, and stops in the form of various shapes. There are so many options for barbecues, you just have to choose the one that suits you. After all, each owner has his own priorities: for some, quality comes first, and for others, design so that it fits the design of a private home. Think in advance where the grill will be located. Choose places without gas pipes and wiring.
Where to begin?
The first step is to find a suitable liquefied gas cylinder. This will not be difficult if you have at least once filled the stove with gas from cylinders. All you have to do is look into your garage. If you do not have an empty container for storing liquefied gas, it does not matter, an empty cylinder can be purchased at metal collection points. To make a quality grill, you will need a capacity of 50 liters.
The choice of container capacity depends on what kind of kebab maker you need. If you prefer a portable grill that is easy to transport over long distances, then you can use containers of 20-30 liters.
Accept that the finished grill will not look presentable. But this will not at all affect the quality of the cooked kebab. Of course, if you put a little more effort and care into the grill making process, it will have a neater appearance. It is necessary to provide a place to place a barbecue or grill.
It is also worth considering that the beginning of the upcoming work requires the presence of a welding machine ; you simply cannot do without it. If you do not have this equipment, you can contact a welding specialist for help. Today this is not a problem. There are a lot of advertisements where highly qualified welders offer their services for a relatively modest fee.
Before starting the main work, you need to make sure that the cylinder is completely empty. First release the gas from the empty container, your safety depends on it.
Even an empty cylinder may have residual gases or condensation inside. To completely empty it, just unscrew the valve and wait until the gas is completely released. These actions should be done in the fresh air; do not choose closed and cramped spaces for this. You also need to make sure that there are no open flames or sparks nearby, as this can lead to spontaneous ignition of the gas.
To determine that there is no gas left in the container, it is necessary to use a solution of soapy water . If the valve anointed with soapy water does not release bubbles, then the job is done, the container is completely empty. But that's not all.
Next, you need to turn the cylinder with the valve down so that the condensate accumulated inside can completely come out. After this, the container must be filled to the top with ordinary water and left for a couple of days. For this, a regular hose with water pressure is useful. This article will tell you how to correctly lay paving slabs on concrete with your own hands.
Only after the above steps will subsequent work with the container be as safe as possible. It is worth emphasizing that the mentioned actions are mandatory , your safety and those around you depend on it.
After this, you can proceed to an equally important point - creating a drawing or project . This process is individual, since each person can make some adjustments to the drawing for further convenience of using the barbecue. Determine all the main parameters of the future product and write them down on a piece of paper. In this case, nothing should be missed.
You should also make sure that you have all the necessary tools at hand, which include:
- electric drill;
- grinder with a metal disc;
- screwdriver or screwdriver;
- loops of the required sizes;
- pipe;
- metal rivets;
- apparatus for welding work.
Naturally, the main thing that is still needed is the cylinder itself. As mentioned above, it is preferable to use a 50 liter container, but smaller cylinders can be selected.
Which cylinder is best for the job?
What can be made from a gas cylinder? The range of designs that can be obtained from it is wide; today we will consider a universal grill. A good option would be a 50-70 liter cylinder. The diameter makes it easy to light a fire. This vessel is spacious enough to fry the entire skewer. But if you do not have containers of suitable sizes, then there will be no problems, you will just have to make calculations using other standards.
The containers are constructed from high-quality steel with a thickness of more than 3 millimeters. If they lay somewhere in the open air for a long time, then it’s okay. In 90% of cases you can work with them. If they are very rusty, then you shouldn’t waste time on this; it will be easier to find another cylinder.
Why a balloon?
The main problem with metal braziers is the rapid burning of the metal. A sheet that is too thin cannot withstand constant heating, becomes too susceptible to corrosion, and becomes brittle. The result is gradually growing holes at the bottom or a box falling apart at the seams.
A thick metal sheet (3...5 mm) of the required size will cost a substantial amount, even if you buy it from scrap metal, but a decommissioned oxygen or propane cylinder without a valve (or with a non-working valve) will cost 1.5...2 times cheaper.
For gas cylinders, even the smallest ones, the wall thickness is rarely less than 3 mm, which is quite enough for a not too long burning.
Table 1. Propane tank sizes.
Table 2. Dimensions of oxygen cylinders.
Since, for reasons of convenience of cooking, cylinders with a capacity of 40...50 liters are most often chosen, the wall thickness of the future barbecue ranges from 3 mm (for propane cylinders) to 6 mm for oxygen ones, which is quite sufficient.
How to do the job safely?
Even if you are sure that the can is 100% empty and nothing comes out, do not make hasty decisions. There is a very high probability that critical drugs remain inside. In order to completely get rid of the poison, you need to pour out all the contents and fill with water, leaving for a day. And only after draining the water is it possible to get down to business. When performing any task you must always be careful. It is best to perform all actions away from houses where people live and in relatively dry weather.
Making a chimney
The chimney must be cut into the smokehouse from the other side if the firebox is already cut into one. To do this, a pipe is welded. The diameter of its internal thread must exceed the outer diameter of the chimney by 4 mm.
If this indicator is higher, then the smoke will pass through the junction of the chimney with the pipe; if it is less, the chimney will not fit well into the pipe. For the chimney, you can use either a round pipe or a profile analogue.
The main thing is that the thematic element:
- Was made of galvanized or carbon steel;
- Had 4mm walls;
- It was distinguished by its low weight;
- Was high enough for good traction;
- It had a cap to protect it from precipitation.
The last two points can be observed if the grill is used in an enclosed space or near tall objects that impair the quality of traction.
What are the advantages of a gas cylinder grill?
The key “plus” is savings. Store-bought copies are slightly more expensive than homemade ones. Even if you don’t have the necessary equipment in your pantry, then look among your friends, because the item is quite common and many people collect dust in the garage, because not everyone knows about the methods of processing it into a useful item.
Consider a number of the following advantages:
- Ease of operation . People with basic skills, having equipment and markings, will be able to build a barbecue from a gas cylinder with their own hands.
- Functionality. With proper thought and inclusion of additional tools in the process, it is possible to make not only standard ones for barbecue, but also devices for grilling and smoking meat and fish. Instead of one function, you can get 3 at once.
- Reliability. Due to the fact that the cylinders are made from high quality steel, the barbecues will last for many years, even if they are used frequently.
- Convenience . Steel prevents burning, so you don't have to extinguish the coals.
- Variety of design . There are many design options: you can make it compact for carrying or large so that you can prepare a full dinner for the whole family at once.
Important! Even if we take average sizes, you can fry 3 times more meat in it, compared to a barbecue from a store.
Pros and cons of homemade barbecues
The material and design of the cylinders determine the advantages of barbecues:
- thick walls made of high-quality metal are resistant to high temperatures;
- multifunctionality - the made design can also be used for smoking or frying food, baking vegetables;
- ease of use - after cooking, close the grill with a lid, it is not necessary to extinguish the coals;
- savings - buying a cylinder is cheaper than purchasing sheets of metal, but often even this is not necessary, since many people already have unnecessary containers in their household;
- speed and ease of production - the dimensions and design of the cylinders are such that a minimum of actions are required to create a barbecue, and no special skills are needed and all the work takes little time.
There are few disadvantages. Some people don’t like the large size and bulky design. Others consider the semicircular bottom of a homemade barbecue to be a disadvantage, which is inconvenient for lighting firewood.
The spherical design of the grill is considered by some to be a plus (the meat is baked evenly), and by others – a minus (the aroma of the meat is not revealed)
What are the disadvantages of a gas cylinder grill?
Having a sufficient amount of advantages of making a barbecue with your own hands from a propane cylinder, it is worth noting the disadvantages, because every medal has a downside.
- Unpleasant view. If you work on the outside, you can get rid of peeling paint and make it more aesthetically pleasing. 90% of old cylinders look sloppy; you will have to work hard and try to bring them into good condition.
Important! When converting the cylinder, use heat-resistant paint to avoid burns. If you have to paint the grill, then additionally prepare a brush attachment for the drill and sprayer. There are paints that can withstand up to 800 degrees. This is important because standard inks can flare up when heated, causing the meat to fly out of the fryer. Before painting, do not forget to apply a primer coat. In the range of heat-resistant paints there are red, black, silver colors.
- If you take the process lightly and make mistakes, then all this will affect the effectiveness of the barbecue.
Important! Think through every detail in advance. If you do not follow the drawings, then the result will be the same. Take your time and don't try to finish as quickly as possible. You will spend only a few hours, but you will use it for many years.
Subsequent marking
Next we need to mark our container. For example, we will choose a 50 liter model. This volume is suitable for making approximately 6 servings of kebab. The diameter of this container is 96 cm. To ensure evenness of the markings, make indents from the longitudinal seam. This diameter can be divided into four even parts, 24 cm each.
Make equal indents from the seam and mark them with chalk or marker. After this, lay the product horizontally and mark the placement locations for six skewers. The cylinder also contains transverse seams; it is necessary to retreat from them by approximately 3 cm. The step between these marks can be set to 8 cm. It is necessary to make holes of the required diameter in the marked areas. How to make drip irrigation from plastic bottles with your own hands, read this link.
Next, you need to return to the first approximate line, make an indent of 10 cm from it. This distance is necessary in order to place the lid on the grill surface.
It is better to measure many times than to cut once. Take the marking process more than seriously. Double-check the correctness of the calculations before moving on to the next stage of the work.
How to make a grill yourself: video
Making a barbecue with your own hands from a gas cylinder is not the easiest thing, but if you have the necessary desire and all the tools, making this design will not be difficult. Basic knowledge and skills will be enough, but if you don’t have them, then it’s time to learn new skills. The most important thing is to take into account all the advice and follow the instructions and safety rules. After all, you must admit, it’s nice to sit on the shore of the lake, absorbing fresh air and eating tender kebab of your own making. In times like these, there is a desire to acquire your own design. Below is a video of a barbecue made from a gas cylinder with your own hands.
Dangers
When making a grill from a regular cylinder, you need to take into account potential hazards that may affect the quality of the product, namely:
- Poorly performed welding work will certainly affect the strength of the grill. If you are not competent in this matter, it is best to use the services of experienced specialists.
- By using a heat-resistant coating for your product , you will significantly improve its aesthetic appearance.
- The finished structure will have an impressive weight , which will affect the ease of transportation.
Consider the above nuances when making your own barbecue.
Question answer
- What should you do if you notice unpleasant odors after using the barbecue?
This problem is encountered quite often, and there is nothing terrible about it. To get rid of the unwanted odor, you need to burn the entire inside. This will not cause harm, but will help remove all existing odors.
- How dangerous is the grill? Can it cause a fire?
In order not to turn a pleasant vacation into an accident, you need to place the barbecue away from objects that are easily flammable and keep small children away from it. The ash that remains after kebabs can smolder for 24 hours.
- How many years can a homemade grill made from gas cylinders last?
If you treat it with care and follow the rules for use, a barbecue made from a gas cylinder with your own hands will last about 10-15 years on average.
- Is the grill heavy? Is it possible to move them and transport them anywhere?
Since even the sources themselves weigh quite a lot, the barbecues turn out to be many times heavier. If you are going to move, then prepare 2 wheels.
If you live in the city and are considering permanent transportation to the forest, make a more compact barbecue from a small cylinder, for example, a barbecue from a gas cylinder with your own hands.
The result of the work done is a multifunctional device for cooking meat and vegetables using several methods at once in one product, using it as a barbecue or smokehouse. If the meat is only fried on a purchased grill, then thanks to the unique capabilities of the grill, it will also be baked. The walls of the cylinder heat up perfectly, which makes it possible to cook food using even a small amount of coals, which gives even more opportunities to save. With a multifunctional barbecue, you can organize a mini-holiday and go out into nature at least every weekend.
Thus, a barbecue made from a gas cylinder with your own hands is an excellent and versatile structure that is even better than purchased analogues. Yes, of course, you can make a stand out of bricks or buy it in a store, but creating something unusual is much cooler. You can safely invite your friends to eat barbecue, because every man should be able to cook delicious meat. And cooking on your own grill is doubly better! Delight your family and loved ones with wonderful dishes prepared in such unique facilities!
Welding handles and lids
It is worth emphasizing that it is not necessary to make a grill with a lid; you can do without it. But, if you still decide to make a kebab maker with a lid, then this is the right choice. Thanks to the lid, you can extinguish the flame and protect the inside of the grill from moisture.
In order for the lid to open and close, you will need a pair of strong hinges. Depending on the selected number of loops, they are placed at an equal distance from each other. One part of the loop is welded to the surface of the grill, and the other part directly to the lid itself. This material will tell you about the rules for installing a polycarbonate greenhouse.
When determining the height , it is also important to take into account several nuances:
- ease of transportation of the grill in transport;
- comfort when preparing dishes.
If you make the legs too long, the grill simply won’t fit in the car. If you choose short legs, you will not be comfortable working with the grill. In this matter, the main thing is to find a middle ground. Practice shows that the optimal height of the structure is about 40 cm.
In order to make the legs, you can choose a regular pipe, pre-cut into equal parts. To prevent the ends of the legs from going deeper into the ground, make flat areas at their ends. A sheet of metal of a certain thickness is suitable for this.
Handles, with which it is convenient to lift the grill and open the lid, can be made with your own hands or purchased in a store. It is advisable to use metal handles , as they will last much longer and will not become unusable due to exposure to high temperatures. Read about growing ginger at home here.
How to make a barbecue from a gas cylinder with your own hands (photo)
Tools needed for work
To work quickly, you need to prepare the appropriate tool. You will need a set of home craftsman tools, as well as a few additional things:
- grinder or grinder;
- welding machine of any type;
- personal protective equipment, glasses, gloves;
- metal door hinges in the amount of 3 to 5 pieces;
- rivet gun, rivets;
- chisel, hammer;
- screwdriver, adjustable wrench;
- drill with a set of drills (a 10-12 mm drill is required);
- chimney pipes and legs, the latter using materials from unused sewing machines.
Using tools requires certain skills; the material of gas containers is quite thick, not every novice master will be able to competently saw and weld metal.
