elements) is 1060 ºF. See a temperature-color chart for the temperature corresponding to other
colors.
Kiln Break-in:
The purpose of the first (break-in) firing is to get rid of any moisture in the kiln, to burn of the oil
coating on the elements, and test the FIREMATE
® and Kiln Sitter® operation. Read all
safeguards (page1-0) and study directions on firing before breaking-in your kiln. Fire the kiln
empty to cone 019 (using the cones supplied).
Firing Ceramics
Safety Cautions:
Do not leave the kiln unattended, such as firing overnight. Even though your kiln has a Kiln
Sitter
®, and limit timer, it is required to use a large cone visible through the peephole to check
firing progress. Check witness cones at (1) hour intervals through firing, at the expected shutoff
time and every half hour thereafter until the cone is properly bent or the Kiln Sitter
® has turned
off. Always check to see that the shutoff devices have operated correctly and manually turn the
timer to “off” and the thumbwheel to “▲” and check that both pilot lights are out. Always
monitor the progress of each firing.
Never open the lid while the kiln is firing. This could cause serious burns as well as damage to
the ware. After firing always allow the kiln to cool with the lid closed until it is cool enough for
you to unload it with your bare hands.
Firing Speed:
The main consideration for firing speed is that you should not fire faster than the ware will absorb
heat, and you should not cool faster than the ware will release heat. Firing and cooling rapidly
should be done only with test firing and thin wall ware made in ceramic molds. Hand made pieces
are fired more safely in the slower firing mode. Very thick pieces, such as hand molded
sculptures, required very slow heating and cooling.
Normally set the Firemate
® speed control on normal speed “A.” Use a setting of “E” for most
handmade pieces. For very thick handmade pieces or for slow temperature soaking of these
pieces or porcelain, use the manual setting for soaking, then turn the Firemate
® Speed Control to
normal speed “A” when you want to proceed.
Remember that during firing you will not endanger your ware by turning the kiln off before
maturity. If you ever hear pieces cracking or falling, or if your kiln has been jarred, turn the kiln
off. Wait until it has cooled, then open and check for problems that may have developed. Replace
all cones with new ones before firing again.
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