HELP! Yes, I too have a kiln question... or 2!

[Sherry M.]

Hi! As you probably have noticed, I'm new here. After days of searching the internet and driving around town (only to come up w/more questions!), I thought it can't hurt to post my question(s) here. Everyone seems so knowledgeable, friendly and helpful.

I've been doing stained glass for years and decided I wanted to try working w/warm glass (another great site!) I'm not loaded w/dough so had to buy an OLD used kiln I found on Ebay. It was manufactured by Fire*Brite (Fort Worth, TX); I've been able to find NOTHING about them. Whatever ... that's not my question (unless someone happens to have any info!)

The seller said the pyrometer worked when it was shipped (and I don't doubt that it did), but it doesn't any more. The wires in the thermocouple are not connected at the tip and I did TRY to weld them back, but the wire is pretty much toasted (brittle) from what I can see. Matter of fact, I found a piece on the bottom of the kiln. Probably happened during packing and/or shipping. Is there a way I can INEXPENSIVELY repair/replace it? I've been all over town and everyone keeps sending me elsewhere; no one has any answers (except $200 ones...sheez!)

Question #2 ... (now don't laugh!) The kiln only has a simple on/off switch; not even an infinite switch. I've seen much reference to making your own temp controllers here and Mark Wilson's much accalaimed "tutorial", but don't know if that's still available? I've seen bits and pieces of it only. (The kiln is 12 amps, 1300 watts and 110 volt ... told you it was old!!)

I'm including pics of the kiln, the thermocouple and the piece I found to better describe my problems. (You can see by the piece I found, the thermocouple wire is pretty fried.)

Thanks in advance for any info! I REALLY DO appreciate it.
Sherry

[AlexM]

Sherry,

The thermocouple is gone, don't even try to fix it. They inexpensive to replace though.

The on/off switch can be replaced with a new infinite switch, that's also an inexpensive fix.

Maybe the guys will chime in here and give you some suggestions where you can get these parts.

[Sherry M.]

Thanks for the encouragement Alex!

I sure do hope someone has some info for me; I'm fairly handy and am willing to try about anything! I'm so anxious to try my new kiln out (besides turning it on!); hope it's not a total waste.

Sherry

[AlexM]

I'm bumping this up in hopes that somebody more knowledgeable about repairing kilns can help Sherry out.

[Rose Leslie]

I'm bumping this up in hopes that somebody more knowledgeable about repairing kilns can help Sherry out.
Hi,

Try Arrow Springs for the information you are after. They have a cataloge on line that has every thing and they have parts also. They have support that they can tell you what you might need. Also the temp at which you need to anneal your beads. I didn't buy a kiln from them but they sure did help me with questions. Here is there number (800-899-0689) This is pacific time so they might still be open.
Rose

[Sherry M.]

Thank you Rose. Checked out the Arrow Springs website and looks like they have a wealth of info and supplies. But I'm still looking for something a little less expensive ... more of a do-it-yourself type thing. I was hoping to maybe just replace the thermocouple on the pyrometer and make my own temp controller (or at least get an infinite switch). I don't think the kiln is worth dumping too much $$ into.

Sherry

[Dale_M]

Most likely the thermocouple is a "K" type and it probably should cost between $20 or $30 to replace.

http://www.omega.com/toc_asp/sectionSC.asp?book=temperature&section=a

http://www.omega.com/ppt/pptsc.asp?ref=BARE_SH_DH_OV_ELEMENTS&Nav=tema02

These can be custom made to your speciifications.

You will need to know some information about METER though. Looking at pyrometer (meter) face there should be some manufacturers names and numbers near bottom of meter face. Mine says (TYPE K TC 0.5 ohms) this is a factor you need to know what TC ( thermocouple) you will need to get. For my kiln it is a type "K" and measure 1/2 ohm at a given temperature (probably 70deg). Type K thermocouples range from 0 deg to about 2300f. and is the most popular for kilns.

As for controller, you can add a infinite controller to kiln. Its the same type controller used for electric ovens and toaster ovens so if you have a "stove" repair or a appliance repair shop near you they probably can help you. Just be aware that infinite switch has to be rated to take current that kiln requires to operate. This information should be on manufacturers plaque on kiln. It will probably read 14amps at 120v ac which is pretty typical of the size kiln in your picture.

Also check with "ceramics" stores and suppliers. Most kiln like yours were uses for either "enameling", "ceramics". or "wax burnout" for lost wax casting processes.

While digital controllers are the best, building one can be a real challenge if you are not electrically knowledgeable and do not have some fabrication and technical skills.

Also "FireBright" was a brand/product name of a manufacturer of enamels for enamels on copper shapes for jewelry making.

Dale

[Sherry M.]

Hi Dale and thanks so much!!!

The pyrometer too says Fire*Brite on it. It says C/A thermocouple and EXT RES 10 OHM ... does this mean anything to YOU?! And it's funny you referred Omega ... I sent them an email asking them but haven't heard back. (I did check a local ceramic supplier who referred me to them. They must be good!)

As for the temp controller, that's not an immediate problem. (No pyrometer is!) I've only "dabbled" w/electronic things so maybe making my own isn't an option. (But I bet I can sweet talk my Dad .. hehe) :D And thanks for the info about an "infinite switch" ... that sounds like a good deal and could tie me over until I can get a "real" temp controller.

So how long ago was Fire*Brite around?

Sherry

[glassfreek]

yukkkkk call john at aim kiln 541-758-8133 tell him you need a 1/4 inch ceramic tube 4 inchs long type k tc with 12 inch leads

mike

[Sherry M.]

Thank you Mike!

I'll call in the morning ... hope they're open on the weekend. I'm anxious to get started here!

From the info Dale gave me, I kinda figured I needed the Type K. And BTW Dale, I'm not THAT young, but I AM listening!!

I LOVE this place already! So glad I stumbled upon it ... you folks are THE BEST!!!

Sherry :)

[glassfreek]

Thank you Mike!

I'll call in the morning ... hope they're open on the weekend. I'm anxious to get started here!

From the info Dale gave me, I kinda figured I needed the Type K. And BTW Dale, I'm not THAT young, but I AM listening!!

I LOVE this place already! So glad I stumbled upon it ... you folks are THE BEST!!!

Sherry :)

your very welcome. sorry i dont think he is there on the weekend but you might get lucky. make sure you put the red wire where the old red wire is.

mike

[Sherry M.]

You're right Mike ... got the answering machine. But I'll try Monday.

Do you know if he would also have any inexpensive infinite control switches or just the digital temp. controllers?

Thanks again

Sher

[glassfreek]

You're right Mike ... got the answering machine. But I'll try Monday.

Do you know if he would also have any inexpensive infinite control switches or just the digital temp. controllers?

Thanks again

Sher

he will any kiln part you need.

mike

[mollyr]

My advice would be to get an infinite switch. I got a GREAT deal on one from www.ekmillerco.com. They are on closeout for just $40.00 plus shipping, and i just LOVE mine. I hooked mine up to my small kiln too, and it has been a godsend! best of luck......

[Sherry M.]

I ordered one too molly ... hope I'm as happy as you when I get mine!! Hey, and thanks for that site!

Sherry

[saucy]

Hi Sherry and welcome to WC. I have an older kiln and I went through the same thing you did. I'm fixing it up in hopes to sell and get out of the garage. My new kiln is on it's way tonight.

[mollyr]

Sherry: The shipping for me was rather slow, but when I inquired, I found out the folks at ek miller had suffered through a bad blizzard, and were uanble to ship right away. Once the infinite switch arrived, I was so excited! It is really "dummy proof" (a real PLUS for me!) and easy to use. It has worked wonders for my small older kiln, and enables me to accurately fire 2-3 jewelry cabochons in just a few hours, rather than having to fire up my HUGE cress kiln. I KNOW you will love it. Quite a deal for the $40.00. It was my "Christmas gift ot ME!" Let me know how you like yours. I think they are great!

[Sherry M.]

Hi Sherry and welcome to WC. I have an older kiln and I went through the same thing you did. I'm fixing it up in hopes to sell and get out of the garage. My new kiln is on it's way tonight.

Saucy, you lucky dog to be getting a new kiln!! Wish I would have found this place sooner ... and I could have bought the kiln you're fixing!!! (Let me know when you're selling it ... I may still be interested. Who knows how things are gonna go w/the old one I have.....)

Have fun and good luck!!

[saucy]

Saucy, you lucky dog to be getting a new kiln!! Wish I would have found this place sooner ... and I could have bought the kiln you're fixing!!! (Let me know when you're selling it ... I may still be interested. Who knows how things are gonna go w/the old one I have.....)

Have fun and good luck!!

I've saved every penny I could to get this kiln. Funds are very tight right now, but I'm working it for all it's worth.

I have the other kiln for sale in the swap shop. However, it's very, very heavy and shipping would probably be a lot.

[Sherry M.]

Sherry: The shipping for me was rather slow, but when I inquired, I found out the folks at ek miller had suffered through a bad blizzard, and were uanble to ship right away. Once the infinite switch arrived, I was so excited! It is really "dummy proof" (a real PLUS for me!) and easy to use. It has worked wonders for my small older kiln, and enables me to accurately fire 2-3 jewelry cabochons in just a few hours, rather than having to fire up my HUGE cress kiln. I KNOW you will love it. Quite a deal for the $40.00. It was my "Christmas gift ot ME!" Let me know how you like yours. I think they are great!
I didn't order my infinite switch from the same place. Mine was even cheaper altho I'm gonna have to do a little wiring. I got mine from Aim Kiln (referred to me by glassfreek for the thermorcouple; was able to order the switch from them too.) Haven't received either yet but John was great. Sure I'll be ordering more from them. (see earlier in this thread if you're interested in their info)

Cheers!

[Sherry M.]

I've saved every penny I could to get this kiln. Funds are very tight right now, but I'm working it for all it's worth.

I have the other kiln for sale in the swap shop. However, it's very, very heavy and shipping would probably be a lot.

Oh, I hear ya about funds being tight!! That's why I bought this old kiln. Where are you located and how much does it weigh, if you know? (I was surprised how "little" it cost to have the one I got shipped 3/4-cross country.)

[saucy]

Oh, I hear ya about funds being tight!! That's why I bought this old kiln. Where are you located and how much does it weigh, if you know? (I was surprised how "little" it cost to have the one I got shipped 3/4-cross country.)
I'm in Texas, in the Austin area in a town called Leander. It's just north of Austin.

It's between 100 and 150 pounds. Humongous thing.

[Sherry M.]

I'm in Texas, in the Austin area in a town called Leander. It's just north of Austin.

It's between 100 and 150 pounds. Humongous thing.

OH!! Must still be bigger than mine even tho it's "small"! Mine only weighed 50 lbs. including packing.

And ... did you just change your picture or am I going batty??!! haha (also didn't notice you having your location posted w/your name either, but that could also be me! Been a looong week...)

[mollyr]

Used kilns can be wonderful! I found BOTH of mine used, paid $50 for my small one, and .......(drumroll) $40 for a large cress kiln in wonderful condition! I LOVE IT! Used kilns are fantastic soemtimes, but I am sure there are some "duds" out there too....

[Sherry M.]

Used kilns can be wonderful! I found BOTH of mine used, paid $50 for my small one, and .......(drumroll) $40 for a large cress kiln in wonderful condition! I LOVE IT! Used kilns are fantastic soemtimes, but I am sure there are some "duds" out there too....
Darn! Why can't I find any deals like THAT!? I paid more for mine than you did for both of yours together! I always check locally but can NEVER find anything any good. Where are you located?

[mollyr]

Darn! Why can't I find any deals like THAT!? I paid more for mine than you did for both of yours together! I always check locally but can NEVER find anything any good. Where are you located?



I am in northeastern NC, but got the Cress kiln in Virginia, about an hour away from here. I do not get a newspaper, so logged on to a local newspaper WEBSITE, and there it was! Just a stroke of luck really, I did not think I could afford anything as nice as I got. If u keep your eyes/ears open, sometimes you can run across good deals. I have even heard of people who literally GIVE kilns away. Wish I could run across a deal like THAT! LOL! :eek:

[CorvetteJuliet]

So how long ago was Fire*Brite around?

I can tell you that they were around in the late 1970's because I have some copper enamel frit & powders and my little dome top kiln my parents got me when I was a kid and they have the Fire*Brite labels on them. Can you say pack rat? I think I got the stuff for Christmas when I was about 13 or 14. :cool:

[Sherry M.]

I can tell you that they were around in the late 1970's because I have some copper enamel frit & powders and my little dome top kiln my parents got me when I was a kid and they have the Fire*Brite labels on them. Can you say pack rat? I think I got the stuff for Christmas when I was about 13 or 14. :cool:
"Pack Rat"!! There, I said it! Wish I was earlier in life (I've learned!) Can you believe I DONATED a kiln to my high school (way nicer than what I just bought). Always thought "ceramics" and thought I'd never use it again .... duh!!! I've been back to that school (for my daughter's dance recital ... yikes!) and the kiln's still kicking. Oh well, guess it went to good use. So let's hope the "kiln gods" have mercy on me when I TRY to get this thing up and running.

[Sherry M.]

I am in northeastern NC, but got the Cress kiln in Virginia, about an hour away from here. I do not get a newspaper, so logged on to a local newspaper WEBSITE, and there it was! Just a stroke of luck really, I did not think I could afford anything as nice as I got. If u keep your eyes/ears open, sometimes you can run across good deals. I have even heard of people who literally GIVE kilns away. Wish I could run across a deal like THAT! LOL! :eek:
Me too! Once every couple months, there's something in the local paper/swap sheet and they're sold instantly. And to think ... my grandmother had a booming ceramic biz ..... whatever happened to all that stuff??!!! (out for trash!) <sigh>