A gas forge can be the solution for your workshop

The modern blacksmith can use a solid fuel forge, such as a coal forge or a gas forge. Coal forging is still the most versatile, but propane gas is the most convenient. Gas forgings run at a little over 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is certainly enough for general forging.

The propane forge is actually an insulated box of various sizes and shapes, having one or more burners on the top or side. Burners can be atmospheric or have an attached electric fan. The chamber retains the heat to heat the bar and the burner provides the heat. Of course, with a propane gas forge you are limited by what you can fit in the box.

The insulation in a smithy gas forge is a high temperature ceramic fiber. Trade names are Kaowool, Durablanket, or Fiberfax. This insulation allows the high temperature inside the gas forge but prevents the outer shell from deteriorating. Hard or soft firebrick can also be used to block heat in the forging chamber.

In some smithy gas forgings, the insulating material is a meltable refractory. This is more like concrete mixing and shaping your gas forging chamber. This is more of a heat shield than a real insulator. This type of gas forge will take a while to heat up. The refractory acts as a heat sink until it has absorbed enough heat to achieve a balance between the high temperature inside and the loss to the environment.

Refractory is more durable than regular fiber insulation, but it does sacrifice thermal efficiency. It is also much heavier than Kaowool insulation. Burnout is also much less flexible than fiber insulation. This means that it will crack with repeated heating. This may not be a problem as parts do not usually fall off.

The option of a gas forge is a great advantage for the modern blacksmith. For those who want a fast heat source with minimal maintenance, such as hobby blacksmiths, it is ideal. Many professional blacksmiths make a living from a propane forge and only use a charcoal forge occasionally.

The small size of a propane forge means that it can be quite portable. Many hobby blacksmiths will easily move a propane forge into the driveway or just out of a shed for use. They are also ideal for hammers.

Gas forgings can be purchased from many supplies, or a blacksmith can make his own gas forge with just a few basic tools from a welder, drill, and metal cutter.

I have been using a gas forge as my main heat source for over 10 years. I still use the coal forge, but the gas is much cleaner. They both have their venues and if your store is big enough I would suggest having both available.