RGaudreau@AOL.COM on fri 28 jul 00
Hi
I've just acquired an old paragon electric kiln that I want to convert over
to a propane fired raku kiln. I'd like some advice on drilling holes for the
burner port and the flue (just hole at the top). I am building a base out of
IFB and sitting the kiln on this. I was first thinking of cutting one hole
in top and bottom and using only half shelves when stacking. I've since
thought that using a pattern of 3 smaller exit holes in the lid at the edges.
This may be able to improve heat distribution. Also it may cut down on
blemishes due to contamination (easier to avoid stacking ware under 3 one
inch holes at edges than from under one 3 inch hole in center).
I'd appreciate any advice before I turn this lid into Swiss cheese.
Thank you,
Bob Gaudreau
Peg Landham on fri 28 jul 00
Bob Gaudreau writes:
".... I'd like some advice on drilling holes for the
burner port and the flue (just hole at the top). I am building a base out
of
IFB and sitting the kiln on this. I was first thinking of cutting one hole
in top and bottom and using only half shelves when stacking. I've since
thought that using a pattern of 3 smaller exit holes in the lid at the
edges..."
Bob,
I've got an 18" Olympic Raku kiln, and what they did was to cut two 3" flue
holes in the top. They are located on the (23") diameter line at
approximately 7" and 15-1/2" centers, which pretty much centers them in the
surface area. The two burner ports are drilled in the bottom, at the extreme
outside edges of a diameter line rotated 90 degrees from the line the flues
are on. I assume the displacement is to increase the circulation. I think if
the flue holes were along the edges, the heat would pass up the upper shelf
and lick right up the sides and out the top without bothering to caress my
artwork on the way. I have never noticed any 'cold spots' on my pieces, but
then I don't stack a raku load that tightly, since I can only handle about
four pieces at a time by myself.
I don't know that this will be of any help, but I figure I'll offer what I
know and let you take what you like and leave the rest. Isn't that what
Clayart is all about?
Peggy Landham
Birmingham
| |
|
