Tom, yes some of the propane forges can have a strong oxidizing flame. However once you get the gas regulator and the air control set it will pretty much stay that way all day long. I made mine primarily for melting not blacksmithing so the blower is a little larger than it really needs to be(it was free). Since you access to a lathe you might like some of the venturi style burners, a little more skill to make but more uncomplicated to use.<br><br>As far as links,<br><br>http://www.lindsaybks.com/ Has a large variety of technical books at reasonable prices.<br><br>http://www.reil1.net/design1.shtml Lots of information on forge and burner design for blacksmithing.<br><br>http://www.anvilfire.com/ The place for anything blacksmithing.<br><br>