large brick pizza oven

[mario]

Has anyone tried to build a larger model of the Pompei Oven described on James's site? I'm thinking of a 6' diameter cooking surface with a similar design and my concerns are:

a) how difficult building dome will be with increased size...

b) if/how "middle leg" of "W" shaped (instead of "U" shaped) stand was constructed and difficulty involved with blocks over lintel ...

c) how exhaust through vent/chimney behaves with larger dimensions...

d) how internal heat of oven is affected by increased size...

Thanks, Mario

[vitoduke]

Support for oven

Hi Mario--I used a center support going from the front to the rear of the hearth and also going left to right about 2 feet back from the front, which cann't be seen in the photo [ I hope the photo is attached]. I used a quarter inch by 2 inch angle iron to support the blocks over the opening. I've had the oven for about 8 months and there is no hairline cracks on the base. ---Mel

[mario]

Thanks Mel. Your oven looks great - good job!

[james]

Mario,

I can take a stab at #3 and #4. The oven should vent well with a larger chimney without any fans. For example, our Ristorante series ovens come with a 12" round vent opening.

I terms of heat, you should also be OK. We have Ristorante ovens that go up to 73" -- over six feet. These ovens are able to hold the 750-800F where you tyipcally want to bake pizza.

Good luck with your project.

James

[mario]

Thanks for the input, James.