thomas rubino wrote:Hi D Welcome to Permies and the wonderful world of rocket science!
As usual Gerry has been spot on with his advice.
I will give you my take on your idea.
I like the concept, great idea! Nothing could beat a warm bench and an open fire in the evening with friends.
Your wanting to build a batchbox as a first build is very ambitious. They are a very technical build compared to a J tube.
After building and living with rocket stoves since 2013. This year I have just felt competent enough to complete my first batchbox. It took weeks, with metal fabrication, locating parts.It is a rather involved process.
Wanting to modify the design as a first build could be a rousing success or a huge disappointment.
Building a J tube on the other hand is fast and simple. Some firebricks and clay, are the main ingredients.
Here is what I would suggest building.
Your double brick benches would be walker style 1/2 barrels , quick to heat and enjoy.
You build an 8" J tube, it does have a short riser, but in place of a barrel you encase the riser with brick. (No ugly barrel in your wife's back yard)
You could put a steel plate on top to heat water or even cook on.
The feed tube on the J is directly between the two benches easy to see and feed. (feeding a J tube while sitting beside it, is a highly enjoyable experience!)
The beautiful brick covered riser is behind everyone not blocking the view at all and would have an added benefit of releasing heat higher up to warm your back and shoulders.
No matter what style you choose to build. Please keep us posted with plenty of photo's!