(Potter in UK) Someone kindly gave me a small but very old Cromartie test kiln. They thought I could use it as a test kiln and for enamel and onglaze work. It looks in good condition and switching it on produces enormous heat, so I guess the elements are OK. The problem is I can't open it. It needs a special key which looks similar to a scaffolding key. I have enquired about a key but the price quoted is £40 including postage, which makes it prohibitive to open up and then find the kiln is useless. Just thought there might be someone out there who chucked their kiln long ago but still has a key hanging around. Also anyone with a knowledge of this kiln. It is number 456, model TK9 -KW3, phase 1 & N, voltage 240, date August
1977. Has anyone ever owned one ?. What was it like - was it expensive to run etc. I have been in touch with Cromartie, but they were totally disinterested. They had no knowledge of that kiln - it no longer existed and I was summarily dismissed. Potters do seem to live a long time, or took up pottery at a young age, so I am hoping someone can help. Gawds tooth !!!- 1977 wasn't that long ago, its just the way Cromartie made me feel.
Roz