Electric kiln switches
 

Does anyone know if it is possible to replace three position
switches in an electric kiln with the infinitely variable type?
Seems it would make ramping and soaking a bit easier.
(No, I haven't called my kiln mfgr yet. Trying for some
background info here first.)
TIA,
Wayne in Key West

Yes, some kiln makers offer it as an option. Variable switches tend to
burn out first due to their frequent on-off pattern, and can't handle
quite as high an amperage, which may be a factor.
My first kiln, a Crusader, used variable switches. My newer kilns,
Crucibles use 3 ways. The 3 ways still burn out, usually at the
connectors on the back, but are much more reliable.
For soaking, try one bottom switch on low. I don't worry much about
this ramping business, except do try to leave the lid cracked till the
steam is gone. Glaze fires can be turned to high within 4 hours of
starting (start on low, shut lid and up to medium at two hours, up to
high at 4). Works for me.
Brad Sondahl
Wayne: Hope you liked your fabulous prizes.


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"Brad Sondahl" wrote in message
...
Yes, some kiln makers offer it as an option. Variable switches tend to
burn out first due to their frequent on-off pattern, and can't handle
quite as high an amperage, which may be a factor.
My first kiln, a Crusader, used variable switches. My newer kilns,
Crucibles use 3 ways. The 3 ways still burn out, usually at the
connectors on the back, but are much more reliable.
For soaking, try one bottom switch on low. I don't worry much about
this ramping business, except do try to leave the lid cracked till the
steam is gone. Glaze fires can be turned to high within 4 hours of
starting (start on low, shut lid and up to medium at two hours, up to
high at 4). Works for me.
Brad Sondahl
Wayne: Hope you liked your fabulous prizes.

try an oven or range top control. you'll have to find an equivalent one so
you'll need the specs to give to the guy behind the counter.

My Olympic uses Robertshaw double pole infinitely variable cooker
switches, and despite continuous use they stand up to it very well.

Steve
Bath
UK


In article , Charlie Spitzer
writes

"Brad Sondahl" wrote in message
...
Yes, some kiln makers offer it as an option. Variable switches tend to
burn out first due to their frequent on-off pattern, and can't handle
quite as high an amperage, which may be a factor.
My first kiln, a Crusader, used variable switches. My newer kilns,
Crucibles use 3 ways. The 3 ways still burn out, usually at the
connectors on the back, but are much more reliable.
For soaking, try one bottom switch on low. I don't worry much about
this ramping business, except do try to leave the lid cracked till the
steam is gone. Glaze fires can be turned to high within 4 hours of
starting (start on low, shut lid and up to medium at two hours, up to
high at 4). Works for me.
Brad Sondahl
Wayne: Hope you liked your fabulous prizes.

try an oven or range top control. you'll have to find an equivalent one so
you'll need the specs to give to the guy behind the counter.



--
Steve Mills
Bath
UK