BWINER@UKCC.uky.edu on sat 27 jul 96
Hi, I forgot to ask in my last message to ask about the pros and cons of
larger or smaller tanks. WARD offers 3 sizes, 30, 40 and 60lbs tanks and
I wonder whether the larger tanks are harder to move which might outweigh
the benefit of getting more firing from one tank. Also, is it necessary to
get a safety system (BASO) which costs an additional $148.50. What about a
Pyrometer, I have never seen it used for Raku but have heard people who use
it feel that it is helpful. Any comments? Thanks again, Billy
Charles Williams on sun 28 jul 96
Billy,
The size of the tank is proportional to weight. I use both 20 lb. and 100
lb. tanks. The 100 lb. tank weighs in at about 220 lbs when full ! I use a
dolly to move this tank. If you are frugal and use an average sized kiln, you
can get at least two firings from the 20 lb. tank. This, of course, depends
on the ambient temperature, humidity, Kiln Gods, etc.
I use witness cones for all firings. I have a pyrometer, but find it is not
as accurate as witness cones. I ruined a couple of kiln loads using the
pyrometer. This was due to overfiring by at least two cones. My pyrometer is
not an expensive one and perhaps a top-end model would perform much better.
Go to pot, with a smile on your face !
Charles
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