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RE: newspapet log maker
Pretty crap!! I have one and friends have had them. Everyone tried them and soon relegated it to the back of a shed or cupboard. It is a practical way of making fuel, but compared to other fuel methods, it is much more labour intensive. The paper briquettes refused to dry out through the winter in an outdoor shed. I had to put them by the side of the wood burner to dry out. This worked but was just another extra stage in the handling process. The briquettes do not last as long as a similar sized piece of wood to burn.
It is far more efficient to go and collect wood and cut it up for burning. Where the paper log maker does have an advantage is if you can not get a ready supply of wood and you have plenty of paper to use. Then it is a practicable method. Also, you should not put glossy type magazine paper into the shredded paper mix. It releases chemicals on burning and also does not bind as well in the paper block.
If ever using the briquette maker again, I would try putting a tiny amount of PVA glue in the paper mashe' mix. I think this will bind the paper better and prevent some briquettes splitting apart. Also it should help the burn slightly.
I tried a few times mixing in fine sawdust with the paper mix, but it caused the briquettes to not bind properly and some blocks came apart. I think under higher pressure, then this might be effective. I consider using a hydraulic bottle jack into a sturdy steel mesh box, instead of the flimsy lever affairs, might result in a much better compressed briquette.
Anyway - only recommended if no other viable source of fuel is available. Could be handy as a back up but the cash may be better spent elsewhere. Just my opinion. Regards, TL.
2 years ago, these paper block makers could be bought on ebat for £13.99 postage free
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