Episode 78 | Stove System Performance (Flame Power vs. Fuel Efficiency)

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Companion forum thread to: Episode 78 | Stove System Performance (Flame Power vs. Fuel Efficiency)

In this episode, we’re going to address stove system performance and specifically, flame power vs. fuel efficiency.

[Jon Fong / Flat Cat Gear]

In fair weather conditions, all stoves can perform pretty well: 6g-8g fuel consumption to boil 500 ml of tap water. You may have to dial in the burn rate (power output), but it can be done. As you stated, specifications are not very helpful in gauging if a stove will meet your needs. The real difference is when stove systems are stressed: wind, temperature, water volume. This is where you can determine if your stove is a fair-weather stove or robust.

With respect to wind, some clues can be ascertained by the geometry of the stove in particular the burner head. In my experience, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe and the Soto WindMaster have been to 2 most wind robust canister topped stoves, with an edge given to the Soto WindMaster. Interestingly, the burner to pot distance on the WindMaster is less than the Pocket Rocket Deluxe (0.27” compared to 0.34”). The worst performing stove has been the BRS 3000t. The burner to pot distance is closer to double the gap of the Pocket Rocket Deluxe.  My 2 cents.

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