Kamado Joe Half-Moon Cast Iron Cooking Grate (Classic Joe) — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kamado Joe Half-Moon Cast Iron Cooking Grate for Classic Joe?
This is a half-moon shaped cast iron grate insert designed to work with Kamado Joe’s Divide & Conquer® flexible cooking system. It is built specifically for the **Classic Joe (18-inch)** models, offering excellent heat retention and searing performance.
Which grills or setups is this grate compatible with?
It fits the **Classic Joe 18″** kamado grills that use the Divide & Conquer rack system. It may also fit other 18″ ceramic grills that adopt similar modular insert dimensions. However, it is *not* intended for Big Joe (24") or grills with different internal geometry.
What are its dimensions, weight, and physical specs?
The grate typically measures about **11.7″ (radius) × 18.9″ (diameter section)** in half-moon form (i.e. covering one half of the circle). It is constructed of solid cast iron, with thickness and mass engineered to provide stable cooking heat. Exact weight and thickness are not published in the listing.
How do I install and use this grate?
To install, remove or adjust your existing grate and slide the half-moon cast iron grate into one side of your Divide & Conquer rack system. You can pair it with a complementary half (e.g. a stainless grate, stone, or deflector) to create direct/indirect zones. Use it for high-heat searing or as part of combination cooking configurations. Ensure the grate sits flush and level to prevent food slipping.
How should I clean and maintain this cast iron grate?
After use and once cooled, brush off residue (while still warm, if possible). For stubborn buildup, soak in hot water (no detergents) and scrub gently with a nonabrasive pad or brush. Dry thoroughly and reapply a thin layer of cooking oil (seasoning) to prevent rusting. Avoid rapid temperature changes (thermal shock) such as pouring cold water on a hot grate. Periodically inspect for cracks or warping.
What are the benefits and limitations of using this grate?
Benefits:
• Excellent heat stability and retention, which helps with consistent searing and cooking control.
• Robust construction suited for high-heat grilling.
• Seamless integration with the Divide & Conquer modular system for flexible cooking.
Limitations / cautions:
• Covers only half the cooking surface — you’ll need a complementary grate or surface for full coverage.
• Due to its mass, it takes longer to heat up and may respond more slowly to changes in fire intensity.
• Be careful of dome clearance (cast iron is thicker) and ensure it fits without interfering with the lid or internal components.
• Cast iron is vulnerable to thermal shock, so avoid abrupt cooling.
