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Parent Category: Technical Articles from Journal Back Copies

Category: Technical Articles 2009

Raymond Jackson

Introduction

The kiln is an essential, and perhaps the most expensive item of equipment in an enameller’s workshop. How important it is, therefore, to buy the most suitable kiln and to expect from it a long and reliable service. There are now many kilns on the market to choose from and the decision can be quite difficult and time consuming. This article has been written to assist in that process by listing and specifying kilns for enamelling purposes. Armed with this information, the prospective purchaser can then direct their enquiries to those kiln suppliers that most nearly meet their perceived needs.

The information about kilns and the list of suppliers in this report only includes those most widely available, and the GOE can take no responsibility for omissions, nor does the listing of a kiln imply that it has the approval of the GOE. The survey is limited to kilns that run off a standard domestic 13A socket or are gas fired. Some of the more specialist kilns for Art clay work, Raku or glass beads are also excluded. Although prices are given, (inclusive of VAT and delivery), markets are turbulent and the fluctuating price of the pound versus the euro reinforces the fact that the figures quoted can be no more than a guide.

Nevertheless, the information should be useful to those contemplating the purchase of a kiln. At the end of the day, a supplier of a particular type or range of kilns will have the most comprehensive information, and their advice should always be sought before purchase.

Information

During the survey, some ten manufacturers or distributors were contacted and an extensive trawl was also made on the internet. Much useful information was obtained and this forms the basis for the table of kiln makes, types and characteristics.

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