DonKopy@aol.com on fri 28 feb 97
Hi,
I fire electrically and had considered zoning the kilns. I have the
capability to link several channels on the controller to do that, but I found
I didn't need to. My fix for uneveness of my firings, was to balance the kiln
over time and several experiments. I adjusted the resistance of the elements,
shifting the heat to where it was needed most. The center was consistently
hotter than the top and bottom. Many manufacturers do this to an extent by
making the very top and bottom elements run hotter. This in part compensates
for heat loss throught the lid and floor, although in my experience it isn't
quite enough. Over time I shifted the heat to the top and bottom rings (being
careful not to overburden them and direct wiring some of the connections
between boxes.....*caution* blindly making changes can be dangerous) until I
now have three levels of resistance in the kiln. This, coupled with a stall
(soak) incorporated in the heating profile about 100 degrees below peak temp.
to allow the kiln to even out if needed, have yeilded extremely even firings.
It's another option, but requires some experimentation to target and
eliminate your specific hot and cold spots. Our kilns are consistently packed
to nearly the same density each firing and this is a factor.
Regards,
Don Kopyscinski
Bear Hills Pottery
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