this post was submitted on 02 Oct 2024
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So I'm not sure this would qualify, it may be too simple. I'd been thinking about trying to build a solar forge (I got to learn forging from a really good blacksmith who worked with coal for a couple years, though I am very much an amateur). I've seen videos of people using old fresnel lenses from rear projection TVs to burn through skillsaw blades and if you can melt steel, you can certainly forge it. It might just be slow, or too focused on one spot, requiring some movement to distribute the heat, something I'd have to mess with. It'd also be a bit of a safety hazard overall, but at least it'd be outside on a paved driveway instead of of inside a shed like my old coal forge.
I was picturing something similar to this smelter but with a reused TV lens, and a fire pot where his crucible is. The mechanical parts would be for rotating it to keep the sun shining through the lens, and possibly for adjusting the focus. Stability and safety would be a big consideration, don't want the wind blowing it around too much.
Again, not sure if it's what you're looking for, but I'd like you to get some usable answers here. Best of luck with your project, thank you for reaching out to involve the community!