The provided manual describes the AXIS series of built-in wood fireplaces, designed and manufactured by Sculpt Fireplace Collection, an Australian-owned company. These fireplaces are intended for heating residential spaces and feature a robust construction with a focus on efficient combustion and heat distribution.
Function Description
The AXIS fireplaces are wood-burning heating appliances designed for installation into masonry or Hebel structures, or as part of an island wall setup. They utilize a Double Air Flow System (DAFS) technology, which injects oxygen into the combustion chamber to achieve double combustion. This process aims to reduce creosote buildup, clean the glass, and enhance total combustion of firewood, leading to higher efficiency and cleaner burning. The fireplaces are equipped with refractory bricks that store and radiate heat, ensuring prolonged warmth even after the fire has ceased. Optional features include hot air transfer kits with two ducts and two registers, allowing for the distribution of heated air to other rooms, and outdoor air kits for external air intake, which is recommended for well-insulated homes.
Important Technical Specifications
The AXIS series includes several models, each with varying dimensions and heating capacities. Key specifications across the range include:
- Material: Solid steel firebox with 60mm thick fire bricks.
- KW Output: Ranges from 25kW to 35kW depending on the model.
- Heating Capacity: Varies by model, from up to 200m² for smaller units (H1200, H1200DS, H1200VLG/D, H1200 3V, EPI950) to up to 300-350m² (H1400, H1600, H1600DS) and up to 350-400m² (H1600XXL, H1600XXLDS) for larger models. These capacities are guidelines and depend on factors such as building characteristics, insulation quality, type of firewood, and climate zone.
- Façade: Clean frame-less design (trim options available).
- Glass Door: Secure swing & lift door.
- Minimum Flue Height: 5.4m.
- Flue Sizes: Available in 200mm, 300mm, 350mm, and 400mm options, depending on the model.
- Hot Air Transfer Kit: Optional extra, includes two ducts and two registers.
- Outside Air Kit: Recommended for well-insulated homes.
- Warranty: 10-year firebox and 5-year firebox warranty for most models, with EPI950 having a 10-year firebox and 2-year firebox warranty.
- Weight: Ranges from 330kg (EPI950) to 530kg (H1600XXL, H1600XXLDS).
- Legs: Adjustable, typically 160mm-600mm.
- Hearth Dimensions: Minimum 1000mm in front of any part of the fireplace, 250mm on either side, and 75mm thick (or 100mm thick for some models). Hearth requirements vary based on unit base height, with specific tables provided for both less than 300mm and greater than 300mm base heights.
- Clearances to Non-Combustible Materials: Specific clearances are provided for rear & sides (50mm with air gap), base (150mm), flue (25mm), and grilles (600mm front).
- Ducting: The duct must be 4 Zero type (aluminium inner core, aluminium outer, poly insulated, minimum R1.0) and tested to AS 4254.1-2012. Outlet MUST be metal. A maximum duct run of 6m is recommended.
Usage Features
- Easy Ignition: The fire-lighting starter and combustion control manage maximum air intake. A 3kg load of wood provides a good layer of embers.
- Airflow Control: The primary airflow can be adjusted by slipping the smaller ash grate inside the larger grate to control combustion. The ash grate can be set to fully-open, partially-open, or fully-closed positions.
- Glass Cleaning: The DAFS technology helps keep the glass clean by injecting oxygen into the combustion chamber. Regular cleaning with specific products is recommended.
- Slow Burning: The method allows for a controlled burn, accumulating minimum unburnt matter in the flue system.
- Refractory Bricks: These bricks are baked at 1350° Celsius during manufacturing, ensuring they can withstand temperatures up to 600° Celsius. They retain heat inside the firebox, radiating it for a long time after the fire has ceased.
- Safety Features: The manual emphasizes the importance of proper installation by licensed trades professionals to ensure safety and compliance with Australian and New Zealand standards (AS/NZS 2918:2018, AS/NZS 4012/4013(2014)). It also warns against using combustible materials near the appliance and highlights the importance of a properly functioning flue damper.
Maintenance Features
- Regular Cleaning: The wood burner operates with multiple hazards (falling embers, smoke emissions). Regular cleaning of the firebox, flue, and ash pan is crucial.
- Paint Maintenance: The paint on the fireplace surface may scratch or rub off over time. Touch-up paint is available from Sculpt Fireplace Collection.
- Ventilation: A strong burning smoke odour may be present during the first several fires. This is normal and will disappear after initial burns.
- Flue & Firebox Inspection: Flues should be professionally cleaned and checked twice a year. The firebox should be checked and cleaned by a professional to ensure no obstruction in the flue and no blocking of the manoeuvring members (damper) before ignition.
- Ash Pan: The ash pan should be emptied regularly.
- Baffle Plate: Ensure the baffle plate is securely in place, as it is vital for safe use and proper functioning.
- Glass Cleaning: The vitro-ceramic glass can withstand temperatures up to 750°C. If the glass breaks, it is recommended to replace it using a material other than that supplied by the manufacturer.
- Chimney Sweeping: Regular chimney sweeping is necessary to perform a chimney sweep and ensure a clear air build-up.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide with common symptoms, possible causes, and proposed courses of action for various issues, such as smoke coming from the fireplace, ash coming from the firebox, glass becoming dirty, and fire starting problems.
The manual strongly advises against using any flammable materials, liquids, sprays, or gas bottles near the appliance and emphasizes that all products should be stored away from the fireplace. It also provides a product registration card for warranty purposes.