Automatic Kiln Controller Question Regarding Elements

[Foxden]

I have been pleased for years with my add-on automatic kiln controller. I set the elements on high and the controller does it's thing following the user program I have input.

 

I have been wondering if I had the elements set at low during the initial stage of the firings (holding at 185 for 4 to 6 hours) wouldn't the controller adjust and keep them on for longer intermittent periods following my ramp and hold settings? Also, wouldn't this be less wear on the elements? The question boils down to which is easier on element life, longer periods on low vs. shorter periods on high?

[neilestrick]

There are two things that wear out elements- cycling (turning on and off) and temperature. In my own not-entirely-scientific tests, temperature has a much greater effect on element life than cycling. Yes, the controller would keep the elements on longer if you had the manual switches set on low, but I think the gains would be minimal if at all at that low a temperature. Plus, what's the point of having a digital controller if you have to turn up the switches when the preheat period is done?

 

Are you doing that preheat with every firing? You shouldn't need to do a preheat at all unless your work is still wet or very thick.

[Foxden]

It's mostly out of habit and things are generally damp around here

[Bob Coyle]

I'll throw in with Neil, let your controller do it's job. I believe any savings in either energy or kiln element life, at low temperatures, would be miniscule, and not worth the effort.If it's wet, program a long hold at around 200F.

[Marcia Selsor]

I agree. Just let the controller do what it is designed to do.

 

Marcia

[enbarro]

A different reason for not setting the switches to high with an external controller is to even out the temp. on the top and bottom of the kiln at the end of the firing.