In Conan Exiles, the Improved Furnace represents a mid‑game upgrade for metalworking that can dramatically boost production efficiency. It speeds up smelting, reduces fuel consumption, and increases overall output, helping players handle large ore runs more effectively on both solo and multiplayer servers. This guide explains what the Improved Furnace does, how to obtain and place it, the expected performance gains, and practical tips to maximize efficiency. Whether expanding a base’s metalworking capacity or streamlining daily gear production, understanding this upgrade helps players plan resource flow and build smarter.
Overview And Benefits
The Improved Furnace is a higher‑tier smelting station that builds on the base furnace’s functionality. It typically increases smelting speed and reduces fuel consumption; some patches also improve yield per batch. When placed and powered by a thrall, it can dramatically increase metal production during ore runs.
- Faster Smelting: Each batch completes quicker, shortening the time between ore input and finished bars.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: Uses less fuel per batch, lowering resource costs for large smelting tasks.
- Higher Throughput: More bars produced per hour under steady operation.
- Thrall Support: A dedicated worker can boost production speed further.
How The Improved Furnace Works
Mechanically, the Improved Furnace operates similarly to a standard furnace but with enhanced efficiency. It consumes fuel at a slower rate while increasing the rate of ore conversion to bars. In practice, players notice shorter wait times and more consistent outputs during long smelt sessions. The upgrade is especially valuable during bulk metal work, such as fortifying bases or crafting large batches of armor and weapons.
Keep in mind that performance gains can vary with patch updates and server settings. On well‑stocked servers with capable thralls, the Improved Furnace often delivers a noticeable uplift in daily metal production and reduces the number of fuel trips required each day.
Crafting Requirements And Placement
To obtain the Improved Furnace, players must access the appropriate metalworking or blacksmithing bench and craft the upgrade using specific materials. The exact recipe changes with game version, expansion packs, and server rules. Once the recipe is unlocked, gather the necessary resources, construct the Improved Furnace in a suitable space near ore and fuel storage, and assign a thrall to operate it for maximum efficiency.
Where to place the Improved Furnace matters: position it close to ore sources, storage, and other crafting stations to minimize travel time. A stable, well‑ventilated workshop area reduces clutter and helps keep production running smoothly. Thralls assigned to the furnace should have sufficient housing and food to maintain performance over long sessions.
Thrall management is a key factor: a skilled thrall increases output and can unlock faster crafting rates. Proper logistics—power, storage, and nearby benches—ensures the Improved Furnace contributes effectively to the base’s metal economy.
Efficiency And Output Gains
The Improved Furnace typically yields notable gains in speed and efficiency, translating to shorter batch times and reduced fuel usage. Exact percentages depend on patch notes, server rules, thrall skill levels, and the game mode. In practical terms, players often experience a lower number of refueling events and a steadier flow of refined bars during heavy metal runs. While the specifics vary, the general trend is a more reliable and cost‑effective smelting process.
| Aspect | Standard Furnace | Improved Furnace |
|---|---|---|
| Smelting Speed | Baseline | Faster |
| Fuel Use Per Batch | Higher | Lower |
| Output Per Hour | Lower | Higher |
Note: Values vary by patch, server settings, and thrall bonuses. For precise figures, consult the current patch notes and in‑game crafting descriptions.
Strategies For Using The Improved Furnace
Effective use of the Improved Furnace hinges on smart layout, scheduling, and workforce. The following strategies help maximize returns on metalworking investments.
- Queue Management: Preload ore batches and plan fuel resupply so the furnace runs continuously during peak production windows.
- Thrall Allocation: Assign capable thralls with high crafting speed to the furnace to squeeze extra throughput.
- Resource Flow: Keep ore, fuel, and finished bars organized in nearby containers to minimize travel time and handling.
- Batch Synchronization: Align smelt runs with large ore deposits or mining expeditions to minimize idle time.
- Progressive Upgrades: Pair the Improved Furnace with complementary stations (such as a steel/advanced forge, if available) to advance into late‑game metalworking smoothly.
Comparisons With Other Furnaces And Related Upgrades
The Improved Furnace sits between the basic furnace and higher‑tier options in most metalworking progressions. Compared to a standard furnace, it offers faster processing, lower fuel consumption, and a higher throughput when operated with a capable thrall. On servers that support additional upgrades or mods, players may see further enhancements such as even faster smelting cycles or reduced waste. For builders aiming to optimize metal supply, upgrading from the standard furnace to the Improved Furnace usually represents a cost‑effective mid‑game investment with clear payoffs.
When planning a base’s metal economy, it is important to consider supply lines, storage capacity, and the eventual transition to late‑game equipment. The Improved Furnace typically pairs well with larger ore deposits, increased storage space, and a dedicated metalworking workflow to prevent bottlenecks during siege preparation or armor production.
Common Issues And Troubleshooting
Users may encounter a few common scenarios when adopting the Improved Furnace. Understanding these helps maintain steady production without unnecessary downtime.
- Recipe Not Available: Ensure the correct crafting bench is accessible and the recipe is unlocked through progression or expansion content. Patch changes can temporarily alter accessibility.
- Insufficient Fuel Or Ore: Verify fuel stock and ore reserves are adequate for the intended throughput. Refill schedules reduce idle time.
- Thrall Not Increasing Speed: Check thrall assignment and food status. A fatigued or underfed thrall may not provide the expected boost.
- Placement Or Space Issues: Ensure there is enough room around the furnace for containers, fuel, and ore transport; crowding can hinder operation and aesthetics.
- Server Settings: Some servers disable certain bonuses or cap production speeds. Review server rules for any restrictions.
Related Upgrades And Future-Proofing
As a base expands, players often pursue additional upgrades to complement the Improved Furnace. Options include higher‑tier metalworking stations, larger storage solutions, and more efficient fuel sources. Planning a modular workshop layout helps accommodate future expansions without major reorganizations. For multiplayer communities, coordinating upgrades among members—such as sharing resources and scheduling bulk smelting—can significantly boost collective output. Modded servers may introduce new furnaces or alternative workflows, offering further opportunities to optimize metal production.