Design Elements of a Fireplace

A Fireplace consists of two primary elements:
Fire Chamber and Flue. The proportional relationship of these two elements dictates its performance.

   Secondary element is the Condor Fire Flue Terminal on the top of the chimney which has a direct influence on the efficiency. Tertiary elements are Flue Damper & FireGrate            
         
A proportional relationship exists between the Fire Chamber and Flue as indicated in the chart below of the most common sizes.
 
     

Fire Chamber
The area in which the fire is contained.
Can be constructed in either masonry or steel and can be lined with suitable glazed tiles to enhance aesthetic presence.

Flue
The air corridor along which the combustion gases and smoke move up and out to atmosphere.
The term chimney refers to an air corridor constructed in brick/masonry and ‘steel flue’ is the same constructed in stainless steel.
Each type has it’s benefits and disadvantages.

Transition
The area where the Combustion Chamber converges to the Flue.

Condor Terminal
A device that diverts adverse air currentsthat would otherwise create downdraft.
Also assists in maintaining a more consistent heat and pressure value in the flue contributing to greater efficiency in performance.
Eliminates necessity of ‘smoke shelf’ and of elevating chimney height to ‘ridge’ or ‘above ridge’.
Reduces likelihood of roof staining and water contamination. ( ie where water is collected for human consumption.)

Damper
A steel plare mounted to open in a regulated fashion so as to regulate updraft where flue sizes have been overdesigned. Also beneficial in sealing off unwanted drafts or insects when fireplace is not in use.

Insect Screen
Constructed in stainless mesh usually of 1.6mm in a suitable frame located in the transition area.

Firegrate & Tray
Appropriate to the extent that a chamber can be built of conventional brick or masonry materials and will not deteriorate providing the firegrate is appropriately constructed. The tray allows for easier housekeeping.		    
   
                  Construction of Chimney / Steel Flue
The flue should always be constructed or installed in a straight vertical manner avoiding bends or curves wherever possible.
Even thought the breast may be constructed of masonry materials,the use os a stainless steel liner is advised as this would optimise the safety features in respect to a flue fire and protect the chimney.In respect to flue configuration, whether it be steel or masonry.
The most efficient flue is a round one. A square or rectangular flue corridor would be the alternative in masonry construction.
Avoid building an oblong section. Where fireplaces are on an outside wall and roof pitch is below 35 degrees,the height of chimney/flue is 1 metre (3 feet) above roof line which has nothing to do with the ridge height.

Chamber Area
The area as shown in diagrams reduces the volumetric area of the fire chamber by eliminating the corners and promoting better heat radiation into the room.
Final design should be with anticipation of Firegrate and Tray being present.
If Firegrate is not to be used in a masonry / brick chamber then it is recommended that the back wall have a steel liner to guard against deterioration.
The protective steel plate is otherwise incorporated into the firegrate design.

Mantle
A protruding mantle as shown will serve to circulate warm air and protect hangings or artifacts above fireplace.
A recessed mantle will only promote dust ‘dumping’ on any artifacts or hangings above fireplace.

Firegrate
A fireplace must have a pleasing presence when not in use. As a firegrate commands focal attention it is important that appropriate attention be given to its design beyond function. A well designed firegrate will not only enhance the visual aesthetics but also promote greater efficiency and safety.

Firegrate construction should be of 12mm plate steel.(minimum)
Tray is usually of 0.8mm galvanised or 0.5mm stainless steel. Tray/s should be such that their removal is to be free and independent of the fire grate.
Removable grate insert has holes no more than 10mm (3/8’) so as that ash can fall through to the tray below.

   
   
                     
                       
             
           
                     
      Room corners are considered the best locations for fireplaces.    
       
                 
                       
 

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