(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