Grating: expanded metal vs CNC cut plate

[Saskattak]

Debating on having 1/8" plate CNC cut with slots and a center design versus the traditional expanded metal grating. This build has turned into a memorial build due to the passing of a good friend (who gave me the tank to use for a build). Like to add the logo for him into the grate. But if cnc platw grating sucks then I won't.

Anyone out there have cook experience on the CNC plate grates?

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[Cole Leffert]

Can you make the logo and just put it somewhere else on the smoker?

[Saskattak]

Can you make the logo and just put it somewhere else on the smoker?

That is the plan as well. Be a few things welded on the outside.

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[dacolson]

If never cooked on a cnc cut cook grate but I've seen a few. If you cut enough metal out, I'm sure you could make it effective. I'd just be concerned w/ airflow around the meat. Expanded metal or steal rods are kind of the standard go to for max airflow.

[tinspark]

I like the looks of the V-shaped expanded metal grates. those make a lot of sense. I made a standard #9 x3/4" open expanded metal L-iron box framed fire basket for my stick burner, and really don't have any problems with it. But if I were to do it again, I would make the V-frame- expanded metal.. Plus (and maybe it's just me) they look way cool!!
Adequate airflow is the main thing.

[Saskattak]

Thanks guys. I am gonna keep to the KISS rule and use traditional grating. The 'look' side of my brain was stronger than the 'function' side on this one lol.

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