Rswanson Posted May 31, 2015 Report Share Posted May 31, 2015 I have recently bought a new 1027 Skutt kiln. It is recommended to run a test fire. I am assuming that is a full 04 firing. (It's odd that test fire is recommended although I have not been able to read a full description of what they really mean by that..am I missing something?) I am wondering....Why does an initial test fire need to be blind? or does it? could I just do a regular bisque fire (04)? I have lots of work. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
High Bridge Pottery Posted May 31, 2015 Report Share Posted May 31, 2015 There was a recent topic about first time firing to condition the elements. http://community.ceramicartsdaily.org/topic/8667-new-elements/ I think thats pretty much why you do this empty firing first. I have been told you can just do a bisque but it would be a better idea to do a long empty firing first to build up the coating. I think a bisque could change the atmosphere slightly if not enough air flow. I just did a bisque first firing but after reading that thread I would probably do a long empty fire for the elements. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LeeU Posted May 31, 2015 Report Share Posted May 31, 2015 I did this not too long ago for my new L&L (18 hrs/cone 5). This is from the manual: The test firing is done very slowly, about 16 to 19 hours total to minimize the inner and outer surface temperature differences in the kiln while it goes through its maiden firing. Also this will slowly steam off any moisture absorbed by the firebrick during construction, shipping, and storage. The test firing is done to cone 5 (about 2167°F) to vitrify the special coating on the inside on the firebrick and to allow an “aluminum oxide†coating to form on the element’s surfaces. The coating on the brick helps to reflect the heat radiated from the elements. The oxide layer on the elements helps to protect them from the many contaminants found in many materials fired in a kiln. This aluminum oxide layer will rejuvenate itself every time there is an oxygen rich firing to a high temperature. Going to cone 5 may also point out any problems with your electrical service - like low or incorrect voltage or wrong supply line wire size. The elements will also seat themselves in the ceramic holders - and any springiness you see when you first get your kiln will be alleviated. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rswanson Posted May 31, 2015 Author Report Share Posted May 31, 2015 Thanks.. we shall run ! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
David Woodin Posted May 31, 2015 Report Share Posted May 31, 2015 Euclids who make and wind elements for kilns recommend firing an empty kiln all peeps open to 1922 deg F hold 8 hours. You can make a simple user program and step to 1922 hold 8 hours/ David Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neilestrick Posted June 1, 2015 Report Share Posted June 1, 2015 In addition to conditioning the elements, the first firing will set the mortar in the lid and floor slabs, as well as make sure everything is working properly- making sure nothing was knocked loose during shipping. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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