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41 Ammonia Fuming: What sort of fuming time is needed?




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This article is from the Woodworking FAQ Collection 1, by multiple authors.

41 Ammonia Fuming: What sort of fuming time is needed?


It requires some preliminary trial-and-error testing to determine
optimum fuming time(s). This is best done with cut-offs from the same wood
used in the piece to be treated. A suggested approach for testing is to
treat several (or more) similar small test pieces which can be removed at
intervals--one at a time--and oil applied to them for evaluation. Care is
needed here to avoid breathing fumes as you remove each sample and reseal
the enclosure (see Safety Precautions). Given three test pieces, you might
wish to pull one out at intervals such as 4, 15 and 24 hours, respectively.

The necessary time can depend somewhat upon the relative tightness of the
fuming enclosure. A well- sealed chamber naturally is most efficient. Some
color (possibly the desired intensity) can result from as little as a few
hours of fuming, while deeper color will usually be produced after periods
of 10 to 24 (or more) hours. With dilute household ammonia, expect the
fuming period to be many-fold greater. Ambient temperature will play a
role; colder temperatures will slow the process. Also, don't forget you're
producing a 100 %RH environment in the fuming chamber, so...condensation
could take place inside the tent if overnight temperatures drop
significantly.


 

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