kiln element life

That's the third time you appear to have posted this. Go kick your news software because it's got problems.

How long could I reasonably expect my kiln elements to last. So far I have fired

I have noticed that at stoneware temperatures I have to be very careful not to overpack the kiln otherwise it struggles to reach temperature in a reasonable time. But I am sure its getting slower.

Thanks

Kevin

In article , Kevin Baldwin writes

It is a good idea to vacuum the elements every 6 or so firings; dust from the movement of the kiln during firing and from the occasional piece of bisque ware that lets go settles on the elements and can impair their efficiency. Also each time an element is fired the poorly conductive oxide layer on the surface of it increases by a very small amount and the core of the element is reduced by the same amount which also slows things down.

Steve

thanks Steve, that's a good idea, never occurred to me. I have had my kiln now for some 6 years or so, fire about 50 times a year, but only to

Monika

Kevin,

I expect to get at least 100 firings, sometimes as many as 180 before I think it is worth changing elements because it is taking too long. I am firing a Cromartie CTL 75 a mixture of biscuit to 1000 and then a variety of glaze firings, mostly to cone 6 but quite a few to cone 8 and a few to cone 9.

I presume from your email address that you are in the UK where the nominal voltage is 240. However, there is quite a range as we are 'harmonized' with the EU. It can easily be 230 and within the approved limits. When I order new elements I specifically state that they are for 230 volt usage. It has made a big difference to the economic life of the elements.

David In article , Kevin Baldwin writes