How long kiln elements last while in storage?

[Pernyh]

Hello everyone, I have the chance to buy a new kiln which has never been fired, but it has been in storage for 10 years. Do the heating elements, the bricks and the gaskets deteriorate with time?

[Russ]

Welcome

As long as the kiln hasnt been subject to the elements and kept relative humid free I venture a guess it should be good for a few thousand years!

[neilestrick]

If the elements look okay then they should be fine. If they appear to have rusted/corroded/oxidized then you should probably replace them. I've got a kiln in my showroom right now that is 40 years old and never been fired, and the elements are still shiny! The bricks will only degrade if they've gotten wet for a long time, and even then they'll probably be fine once they dry out. Inspect all the electrical connections in the control box and replace any corroded connectors, cutting back the wires to fresh metal.

[Bill Kielb]

Heck the old nichrome element wire (Nickel / Chrome/ some iron) or even newer Kanthal are very resistant to corrosion and even when they do under operation, that small skin protects them from further corrosion. New in storage, probably shiny elements. Fired once then stored, pretty much ought not to matter actually. You might find some of the electrical contacts oxidized and maybe a critter or two that likes a dark place to hide in the control box. Post a picture or two here  if in doubt.

Edited January 19, 2023 by Bill Kielb