Small propane tank
Propane tanks are manufactured in a number of sizes. The metal is well constructed and durable, which makes them ideal for any number of projects when they are no longer needed for propane. Once you know the propane tank is completely empty, or purchase a new one that has never held propane, convert it into something practical or just plain fun.
Backyard Meat Smoker
Large propane tanks make great meat smokers for personal use. Set the tank in a vertical position, add metal brackets to create legs to keep the tank off of the ground. Secure the legs with bolts into concrete footings. Cut a small door at the bottom of the tank for the fire box area and a larger door at the top for access to an area for meats. Inside the tank, create a shelf for the grill grates by adding L-brackets. Set a solid circle of metal pierced with holes in the lower part of the tank to create the top of the firebox. Secure hooks inside at the top for hanging meats or cheeses. Add a thermometer in the upper half that can be read from the outside. Paint the tank with heat-resistant paint to protect the smoker from developing rust.
Big Bad BBQ
Finally, you can have a BBQ with a grill large enough for entertaining. Set the propane tank so that it is horizontal, and cut two or more door sections from the top, depending upon the size of the tank. Add hinges and handles so the door will lift upward. Use L-brackets along the interior to create a shelf for the grill grate or series of grates sit. Join a horizontal and vertical tank to create a BBQ with a large grill area and a side smoker.
To make a small BBQ grill, cut small propane tanks horizontally around the diameter. Add a handle for the lid and L-brackets to hold the grill grate inside the bottom section.
Child's Play
Convert used propane tanks--250 gallon or larger--into projects that create lifelong memories for a child. Imagine how delighted a child would be to have her own submarine, rocket, airplane, train engine or race car. Add additional identifiable elements using paint, plywood or metal. Keep the cost of the project down by reusing materials that would otherwise be discarded. Weld, bolt and glue items onto the propane tank to give the indication of wings, wheels or other identifiable parts. Don't forget to decorate the inside with paint or with discarded switches, shifters, gauges and more.
Cut out openings for the child to easily get in and out, grinding down the edges for safety. Also be sure the propane tank, whether horizontal or vertical, is securely bolted into concrete footings so there is no risk of the tank topping over.
Indoor or Outdoor Fireplace
A small tank can be converted into a pot belly stove to heat a barn, shop or home. Used propane tanks have a number of design possibilities for use as an indoor or outdoor fireplace or fire pit. Cut out a door, then add hinges and a handle or choose to leave an opening. Cut decorative scroll work into the body of the tank and watch the designs light up at night.
Indoor fireplaces need to be properly vented and all tanks secured to prevent tipping.
Campy Art
Convert used propane tanks or larger tanks still in use into yard art or an eyecatcher for your business. A common option for a BBQ business is to paint the tank pink, and add a snout, ears and curly tail to indicate a pig. A cow's head cut from plywood, attached to the tank and painted black and white along with the tank will look like a cow in the yard.
Tags: propane tank, propane tanks, tank create, concrete footings, Convert used