European Compressed Charcoal Blocks

A compressed charcoal block gives you a soldering and annealing surface that reflects heat back into the work, so the torch flame does more of the job. These European blocks are imported from Poland and made of dense compressed charcoal, which makes them harder and heavier than standard soft charcoal blocks. Before use, wrap the sides tightly with binding wire and heat cure the block to prepare it properly. Annealing the block before first use will also extend its working life.

Charcoal naturally absorbs moisture from the air. A block stored in a high-humidity environment can crack when high heat is applied, as trapped moisture tries to escape. Follow the preparation steps in the Notes below before first use or any time the block has been exposed to humidity.

Features

• Dense compressed charcoal construction, harder and heavier than standard soft charcoal blocks
• Reflects heat back into the work for efficient soldering and annealing
• Imported from Poland
• Available in three rectangular sizes and one round size
• Longer lasting when annealed before first use
• Must be wrapped with binding wire and heat cured before use
• Blocks will shrink with use over time

Available Options

Notes

• Binding wire wrapping is required before use to help prevent cracking during heating.
• Blocks will shrink with repeated use, which is normal.
• Store charcoal blocks in a cool, dry place to minimize moisture absorption between uses.

Moisture removal before first use:

1. Gently heat a burner on your stove and warm a cast iron pan or similar heavy pan.
2. Place the charcoal block in the pan.
3. Observe the block for escaping steam.
4. Once steaming stops, the moisture has been removed and the block is ready to prepare for use.