Attention, everyone, we are getting way off topic here. After looking at the pics closely and agreeing with a few posters, I would venture that it was a fabrication error. The punch process fatiqued the sheet stock, possibly small pieces caught in the punch. Heating and cooling cycles opened the cracks and eventually let the cracks join at the holes and a small piece fell out. Further cycling and the cracks opened further.
Two observations, though, there seems to be some "salts" build up on the side holes. This would tend to force more air through the bottom and create the blow-torch effect to significantly raise the burn temp at the middle of the pot. Pellets falling into the pot would not cause any of the cracking or failure.
Second, Travis must be aware of the situation and unlike many other manufacturers didn't quibble about replacing the pot at their nickle. No questions or fuss, that's really pleasant to see. As a return favor, ask the dealer for the address of the R&D for the stove factory. If the dealer doesn't take the pot and send it back, you do it with a summary of use, and a big THANKS for the super service.
Two observations, though, there seems to be some "salts" build up on the side holes. This would tend to force more air through the bottom and create the blow-torch effect to significantly raise the burn temp at the middle of the pot. Pellets falling into the pot would not cause any of the cracking or failure.
Second, Travis must be aware of the situation and unlike many other manufacturers didn't quibble about replacing the pot at their nickle. No questions or fuss, that's really pleasant to see. As a return favor, ask the dealer for the address of the R&D for the stove factory. If the dealer doesn't take the pot and send it back, you do it with a summary of use, and a big THANKS for the super service.
