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electric kiln - immediate turn around or let it rest for a few days

updated mon 2 jun 03

 

PurpleLama@AOL.COM on sun 1 jun 03


Dear Clay Buds,

I assume this question would only be asked by an amateur since time is not
money for me - at least not in the clay business. So, here goes

I have two kiln loads to fire. I can fire the first load, empty it out as
soon it can be done safely and then fill and fire with another load OR I can let
the kiln cool down completely, maybe even wait a few days between loads.

My question doesn't have to do with my pots, but rather with the electric
kiln. Will one scenario wear out the elements quicker than the other?

Thanks for your thoughts

Shula
in sunny Redondo Beach, California

Lois Ruben Aronow on sun 1 jun 03


When I am getting ready for a show, I often unload then reload and
fire. I seem to have no noticeable element wear, knock wood. I have
been firing almost non stop this year.

Bear in mind, though, that I normally unload my kiln below 200f. That
means my elements have already been off nearly 18 hours. I don't
crash cool - it's a great way to kill pots. If I am reloading with a
glaze, that will be another 3 hours or so, as I put my pots in wet
immediately after glazing. =20

************
www.loisaronow.com
=46ine Craft Porcelain and Pottery


***************************************
Lois Ruben Aronow
Modern Porcelain and Tableware
http://www.loisaronow.com=20