I have a stove with an aluminum pot, and it struggles to heat water with fuel tablets. A steel pot would be less efficient due to its heavier mass needing heating as well. Consider a Trangia 27 set for better performance.
@Benn
I also have this stove and it performs poorly. I suggest trying a different stove, like the Kuvik Titanium Solid Fuel Stove, which works better with a wide, shallow pot.
@Benn
I’ve been using Esbit fuel with a small stainless canteen and haven’t had issues with cook time. I’ll check out the Trangia 27.
Haru said:
@Benn
I’ve been using Esbit fuel with a small stainless canteen and haven’t had issues with cook time. I’ll check out the Trangia 27.
Aluminum is safe for cooking and durable, no need to worry about it breaking down.
@Grady
Exactly, and realistically, the fumes from hexamine tablets are more harmful than any potential risk from using aluminum.
Toryn said:
@Grady
Exactly, and realistically, the fumes from hexamine tablets are more harmful than any potential risk from using aluminum.
Be cautious of the toxic fumes, especially hexamine, which can be very dangerous if inhaled. Also, avoid handling Esbit with bare hands to prevent chemical contamination.
@Gale
Indeed, the fumes may contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and hydrogen cyanide.
Toryn said:
@Grady
Exactly, and realistically, the fumes from hexamine tablets are more harmful than any potential risk from using aluminum.
That’s very true.
If that’s the specific model you want, then you might have to accept the higher cost.
Are you committed to using Esbit? I use a SnowPeak stainless kettle with a Trangia burner and a wind shield, which allows flexibility to use twigs, alcohol, or tablets.
Blaine said:
Are you committed to using Esbit? I use a SnowPeak stainless kettle with a Trangia burner and a wind shield, which allows flexibility to use twigs, alcohol, or tablets.
If you’re open to alcohol burners, consider siphon burners like those from Toaks or Lixada, which are more efficient than Trangia.
@Joss
I also have a Toaks, but my old Trangia holds sentimental value. It’s about preference, really.
Blaine said:
@Joss
I also have a Toaks, but my old Trangia holds sentimental value. It’s about preference, really.
Absolutely, Trangia has its advantages, especially for simmering.
Blaine said:
Are you committed to using Esbit? I use a SnowPeak stainless kettle with a Trangia burner and a wind shield, which allows flexibility to use twigs, alcohol, or tablets.
I prefer Esbit for its simplicity and versatility, especially as a fire starter.
@Haru
You might want to consider other pots that also offer good stability and can be used with solid fuel tablets.
Blaine said:
@Haru
You might want to consider other pots that also offer good stability and can be used with solid fuel tablets.
I’m looking for a setup where the pot and base lock together for stability on uneven surfaces.
Anodized aluminum is very durable and shouldn’t flake or break down under normal use.
Leith said:
Anodized aluminum is very durable and shouldn’t flake or break down under normal use.
I’d be surprised if aluminum cookware started degrading under standard cooking conditions.
For an Esbit setup, I wouldn’t pay that much. It’s decent but not worth a high premium.