Freezer retro-fit

[ernst_lark]

I'm almost finished cleaning out all of the factory foam insulation in this upright freezer that I'm wanting to turn into a PC oven.

I wanted to get some opinions on my plans for finishing this project.

First of all, I was thinking that instead of lining the interior of the freezer with high temp insulation and sheet metal, I would line the exterior of the freezer and encase the entire thing in hardi backer board.... My plan was to gain that extra space and not have to deal with pop riveting the interior.

from there I've got the whole wireing harness, two elements and control panel from an electric range that I'll be using to heat the oven.

Still unsure If a fan will be necessary? also unsure about how to secure and seal the door.

I'd appreciate any store links, plans, tips, anything that would aid in me completing this project and it work safely.

thanks,

[FigureLLC]

i would build it up on the outside like you said with 25ga steel 2x4 studs and use R15 fiberglass insulation with the kraft paper removed. i've read posts discouraging hardi board bc it soaks up heat and will take more time to get the oven to temp. and if you're using elements from only one kitchen oven, it'll probably already take a long time. i'd use tadpole seal around the door and a latch, both from mcmaster-carr. draw latches work great for a tight seal, but they're not ideal since you need a free hand to latch them. they have lots of different kinds though.

[grommit]

hello there,
if you have followed my thread started sometime ago on my freezer oven donor then you will of read up on some of the perils that are associated with these items especially the foam, apart from the main pain in the butt getting the foam out, once removing it it causes the walls etc to lose some of its rigidy, as i found out almost to my cost due to my friends heavy feet until i got the sheet fixed i almost thought it was a waste of time, but i stuck at it.
There are almost hints and tips on every thread posted to help us with our oven making,but i am still 'Electric dumb' so it will be trial and error when i get my donor elements etc fitted.
please strip one section at a time and then fit the sheet, or at least secure all corner points or the frame will become very weak.
keep us posted, with pics if possible.
regards,
grommit
UK

[ernst_lark]

Thanks for the replies.

Originally Posted by FigureLLC

i would build it up on the outside like you said with 25ga steel 2x4 studs and use R15 fiberglass insulation with the kraft paper removed.

Is 4" insulation between the 2x4 metal studs the way to go? If you framed it on the 2" side, would 2" unsulation be adequate?

Also, would any fiberglass tadpole seal work, specifically the cheapest one listed at $1.80 ft.? Or should it be alittle larger?

thanks