The Kelly Kettle, also known as the Volcano Kettle or Thermette, is a popular wood-burning camping stove that has garnered attention for its efficiency and simplicity. In this technical overview, we will dive into the specifics of the Kelly Kettle, its operation, and what makes it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Design
The Kelly Kettle is a highly efficient wood-burning stove designed for outdoor use. It consists of three main parts:
Kettle Base: The base is a double-walled container with an opening at the bottom to create an airflow system. It is designed to burn a variety of fuel sources, including sticks, twigs, dry grass, and pinecones.
Chimney: The chimney is an integral part of the design, extending from the top of the kettle base. It allows for efficient air circulation and, in turn, faster boiling of water.
Water Jacket: The water jacket surrounds the chimney and holds the water to be heated. It prevents the risk of scorching or burning the user while ensuring a stable source of hot water.
How it Works
The Kelly Kettle’s operation is straightforward:
Fill the Base: Start by filling the base with your chosen combustible material. Dry twigs and leaves are excellent options. Avoid using wet or green materials as they will produce more smoke and less heat.
Ignite the Fuel: Light the fuel in the base using matches, a fire starter, or any other ignition method. The chimney design helps the fire start quickly and evenly.
Place the Kettle: Once the fire is established and producing a strong flame, place the kettle on the base. Ensure that the water jacket is filled with water. You can add more fuel through the chimney as needed.
Boil Water: As the fire burns in the base and the hot air rises through the chimney, it heats the surrounding water in the jacket. The kettle can bring water to a boil in a matter of minutes, depending on the amount of fuel and water used.
Advantages of the Kelly Kettle
The Kelly Kettle has gained popularity among campers and outdoor enthusiasts for several reasons:
Efficiency: The unique chimney design maximizes the use of heat energy, making it incredibly efficient. It can boil water quickly, saving you time and fuel.
Minimal Environmental Impact: Since it relies on small sticks and twigs for fuel, the Kelly Kettle is an eco-friendly choice. It doesn’t require carrying heavy fuel canisters.
Compact and Lightweight: The Kelly Kettle is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for backpacking and camping trips where space and weight are crucial factors.
No Need for Special Fuel: You can find fuel for the Kelly Kettle in the natural environment, reducing the need to carry extra fuel.
Safety Tips
While the Kelly Kettle is a reliable and efficient camping stove, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines:
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the stove, especially when the fire is burning. The kettle’s exterior can become very hot.
Use in Well-Ventilated Areas: Always use the Kelly Kettle in well-ventilated areas to prevent smoke inhalation.
Don’t Leave Unattended: Never leave the stove unattended while it’s burning.
Extinguish Properly: Ensure the fire is entirely extinguished before disassembling and packing the stove.
In conclusion, the Kelly Kettle wood-burning camping stove is a reliable and efficient choice for outdoor cooking and water heating. Its ingenious design, simplicity, and environmental friendliness make it a preferred option for campers and hikers alike. Just remember to use it safely, and you can enjoy hot meals and drinks even in the wilderness.