Large Pyro Cage Incinerator 48"

Do the Pyro Cages warp?

All metal expands when heated. We have carefully designed the Pyro Cages to minimize the warpage that can result when the metal is hot, but the metal WILL warp to varying degrees. When burning organic material like limbs and leaves the effect is less than processed artificial material like cardboard, plastic. or wood that has adhesives. While the panels can distort it does not impact the effectiveness of the unit - any gaps that can develop are still small enough to safety contain the burn. Generally, the effect is most noticeable during there first couple of burns and tends to even out with use. The thicker PRO Series panels are fabricated from 1/8" steel and is designed for heavier and more frequent use. Even with this very thick material the PRO Series panels are not immune to expansion from heating and will warp to some degree.

Is it hard to take apart later?

First assembly is tool-free and takes a few minutes. Take-down after a season of hot burns is a different job: heat cycling tightens the tab-and-slot joints, so plan on a rubber mallet, some leverage, and working corner to corner. Most customers simply leave the cage assembled year-round — a fitted cover keeps it ready — and break it down once a year at most. If hand strength is a concern, plan on the cage living assembled, or line up a helper for the annual take-down.

How do you light a fire in the Burn Cage?

We use a long lighter to ignite our fires from the top of the unit. We burn a lot of boxes and there is always some loose paper that ignites easily to get things going. There's no need to light from the bottom - once you get things started at the top the fire will quickly work its way down. This is actually safer too - lighting the fire from the bottom can cause hot air to rise quickly to the top which can force lighter materials out of the cage if a Burn Cage Lid is not used. Starting from the top can prevent these "flyaways" from happening as the fire moves it's way down.

Will the Pyro Cages rust?

It's important to note that our Pyro Cages are cut from Mild Steel, and are not made from Stainless Steel. We made this decision very deliberately because we were able to make a burn barrel replacement that was nearly 2x thicker than the competition while still providing a larger cage for less money. If left out in the elements untreated, the Pyro Cages will develop a layer of surface rust that is an aesthetic issue only. The cages are much thicker and made from high quality American steel compared to cheaper import alternatives. Over time the Pyro Cages will turn a deep, dark red that we find much more natural in appearance than tarnished stainless steel.

While the cages are designed to be left outdoors in the elements, to extend the life of your cage it is important to prevent ash from accumulating in the bottom of the unit. When it rains, the ash will retain moisture like a sponge. When left in extended contact with the steel panels this can cause deep rust and premature failure.

We do offer a line of custom fit covers for each size of Pyro Cage to add additional protection to your cage that will add many years to the lifespan of the unit.

What kind of material can I burn in a Pyro Cage?

The Pyro Cage is designed to burn organic materials like brush, limbs, leaves, and common paper items including cardboard, junk mail, and old files to name a few. We do not recommend burning plastics, rubber, or manufactured items that may include adhesives or other chemicals that may create dangerous fumes or extreme temperatures.

Can I use gasoline or other accelerants to start a fire?

No - you should never use an accelerant to start a fire in a Pyro Cage. We've got years of experience burning in these cages and have never found it necessary, either. The most important thing to getting a good, clean burn is to make sure that your burning things that are dry with a low moisture content. Burning fresh cut leaves or limbs will be difficult and will result in excess smoke.

How do I extend the service life of my Burn Cage?

The most important thing to do to maximize the service life of your Burn Cage is to avoid extended exposure to moisture. There are two specific things that lead to premature failure: leaving ash to accumulate inside the cage and sitting the Burn Cage directly on top of soil. Ash will hold water like a sponge allowing the moisture to stay in constant contact with the steel leading to excessive rust to develop and eat away at the steel panels. We recommend placing the Burn Cage on top of a gravel or rock base or on top of concrete pavers to prevent extended exposure to wet ground. Following these guidelines will add years of service to your unit.

Download the panel assembly instructions (PDF)