Why won't it burn

[richardwale]

This timber has a moisture content of 10% and just smoulders. It was taken out of a coal bunker after, I'm told, being in there for at least 20 years. Why won't it burn, it just smokes, and then eventually obviously burns away. Any ideas?

[Stubby]

What is it and what are you trying to burn it on ?

[richardwale]

What is it and what are you trying to burn it on ?

 

Don't know what it is, thinking it might be red oak? Trying to burn in my fire pit with other very dry hardwood

[Stubby]

Don't know what it is, thinking it might be red oak? Trying to burn in my fire pit with other very dry hardwood

 

I find , generally that most oaks are relatively slow . Holm oak , common oak and red oak . Have you tried mixing it with some dry Syc to get a good hot base ?

[richardwale]

Yup. Just doesn't want to ignite

[Jim B]

Is it damp in the bunker? Have you resplit and tested the inside of the log?

[richardwale]

Is it damp in the bunker? Have you resplit and tested the inside of the log?

i have yes, approx 12%

[Joy Yeomans]

oak is notoriously difficult to catch a flame but once going will burn steady . try getting fire going with some softwood once good embers then put on your oak.