Banjo Burn Woes...

Apendecto · 11-12-2009, 11:09 PM

I've use my Bayou Banjo propane burner a few times with mixed results.

Today was the first time I tried to keep 5-6 gallons boiling and it wasn't working all that well. After reading some threads here, I'm thinking wind may have been an issue. I'm just concerned that I won't be able to boil 10-11 gallons if I'm having issues with 5.

But I'm assuming I'm a moron and I'm not using it correctly.

Sometimes if I open the gas flow all the way (especially after it's been burning a while) the flow stops. Other times it works like it should. Hmmm...

Today, if I remember correctly, I started out with a powerful flame and it petered out near the end-with a never been used full tank.

How do you use this burner most efficiently?
Propane full on, restrictor to where you want to gas? Or backwards?
What should the flame look like? Sound like?
Should the propane tank get some frost around the outside of it?

Thanks.

JesseRC · 11-12-2009, 11:19 PM

Wow, I have the same one and I bought it even after mixed reviews, and I have not had any issues with flame blowing out. It hasnt been real windy though and I've done 5 batches.

-I open the tank valve all the way, but slowly open it.
- the valve on the reg get opened slight just enough so I can light it
-I then open her just about a 1/4 " more.
- I then adjust the air flow ring until the flame turns yellow, then I go back the other way until the yellow flame disappears.
-Doing it this way, allow me to open the valve on the reg more througout the brew session without having to readjust the air flow.

I've done about 3 11gal bacthes , which mean I was boiling about 14 gallons . No problems at all. The only issue I have is once the propane tank gets low, the pressure drops and flame gets low. The tank also freezes easier when the tank is low. To remedy this , put the tank in a basin of water, it should keep it from freezing. I love my KAB6. I get to boiling in like 15-20min.

**This isnt supposed to be reall loud like the turkey burners you get real cheap. I can hardly hear mine. If you have it real high, you're just wasting BTU's. As for the wind, build yourself a wind guard out of flashing, or brew in the garage.

adx · 11-13-2009, 12:52 AM

Is the tank freezing? That's exactly what it sounds like is happening.

Apendecto · 11-13-2009, 01:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by adx

Is the tank freezing? That's exactly what it sounds like is happening.

Yeah, there was definitely some frost on the outside. What does this do and how is it caused?

Thanks.

peripatetic · 11-13-2009, 01:16 AM

I had my flame blow out a couple of times, but I just put up a barrier a couple feet high in the direction the breeze was coming from and it fixed it.

I usually open up the oxygen valve all the way, and adjust the regulator on the banjo burner hose. I feel like that is making the best use of the propane, but I am not an expert. I have been getting a number of 5 gal boils per propane tank, so that's good, I guess.

I have noticed that when a tank gets low, the pressure drops. Maybe it is the freezing thing -- I definitely see frost. I just shake the propane tank for a few seconds and the pressure goes up again for 5 minutes or so. It's annoying to shake the propane tank every 5 minutes, but not too bad. Keeps me busy.

Apendecto · 11-13-2009, 01:21 AM

I found a cool article here...

http://arfarfarf.com/fire/articles/keeping_propane_tanks_warm.php

Hermit · 11-13-2009, 01:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by adx

Is the tank freezing? That's exactly what it sounds like is happening.

In cold weather, I can't use my propane grill, even wide open. The gas pressure is too low. If that thing is running wide open you could be dropping the temp of the tank as you are using it faster than it picks up heat from the surrounding air.

Fingers · 11-13-2009, 01:25 AM

I've had issues with the connection to my propane tank. Before I try to light I turn the gas on high to make sure I have good flow. Often I don't and have to remove and then screw the connector on to the tank again. Of course once it starts to work it always stays that way so it may not be the same problem you're having. In any case, it's a quick check.

hsbcapt · 11-13-2009, 01:58 AM

I have 3 banjos on my stand and a 0-60 reg but never get the reg higher than about 20. I cant see my flame during the day but looks good at night and thats with the O2 set at full open.

Apendecto · 11-13-2009, 02:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hsbcapt

I have 3 banjos on my stand and a 0-60 reg but never get the reg higher than about 20. I cant see my flame during the day but looks good at night and thats with the O2 set at full open.

Is it loud as hell?