Buying a kiln is a serious investment. We stock a range of Prometheus kilns but what are the main differences between them? We have investigated, and put together this buyers guide to help guide your decision.
| Prometheus Mini Kiln Pro-1 With Digital Controller | Prometheus Mini Kiln Pro1-prg Programmable with Timer | Prometheus Mini Kiln Pro1- prg Preset For Metal Clay | Prometheus Kiln Pro-7-prg-bd Programmable With Timer | |
| Product code | 855 1004 | 855 1005 | 855 1009 | 855 1006 |
| Outer dimensions H x W x D | 280mm x 225mm x 220mm | 295mm x 225mm x 240mm | 295mm x 225mm x 240mm | 435mm x 360mm x 370mm |
| Firing Chamber Dimensions | 115mm x 130mm x 70mm | 115mm x 130mm x 70mm | 115mm x 130mm x 70mm | 205mm x 230mm x 155mm |
| Weight | 5.7kg | 5.7kg | 5.7kg | 22kg |
| Max. Temp. | 1000°C | 1000°C | 1000°C | 1100°C |
| Guarantee | 2 year | 2 year | 2 year | 2 year |
| Suitability | Metal Clay, enamels, glass fusing, low fire ceramics, china painting, annealing, hardening of precious metals | Metal Clay, enamels, glass fusing, low fire ceramics, china painting, annealing, hardening of precious metals | Metal Clay, enamels, glass fusing, low fire ceramics, china painting, annealing, hardening of precious metals | Metal Clay, enamels, glass fusing, low fire ceramics, china painting, annealing, hardening of precious metals |
| Requires additional kiln shelf | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Timer | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Features | Even heat distribution from 4 embedded heating elements. 90° opening door. Cool touch handle. Digital temperature Control. | Even heat distribution from 4 embedded heating elements. Programmable timer. 9 pre-programmable settings. 90° opening door. Cool touch handle. Digital temperature Control. | Even heat distribution from 4 embedded heating elements. Programmable timer. 8 pre-programmed clay settings, plus 1 extra programmable setting. 90° opening door. Cool touch handle. Digital temperature Control. Drying programme | Even heat distribution from 4 embedded heating elements. Programmable timer. 9 programmable setting. Bead door. Cool touch handle. Digital temperature Control. |
Prometheus kilns have been specifically designed to be used with precious metal clay. They all contain four embedded heating elements which provide constant and even heat distribution with the aim of producing consistent and dependable results every time, perfect for metal clay work.
Your choice of kiln will undoubtedly be determined by a number of factors and Cooksongold carry a small but comprehensive range to suit all requirements. Principally all Prometheus kilns contain the same great features; you just need to decide what your priorities are for example;
- Do you need a timer?
- Would you prefer pre-set programmes or are you happy to programme the details yourself?
- Would you like a drying programme?
- Or are you just after the most cost effective solution?
The answers to these questions will help you decide which model is right for you and the comparison chart above will help you to evaluate these features side by side.
If size is the most important consideration then the Prometheus Kiln Pro-7-prg-bd Programmable with Timer has the largest firing chamber along with a bead door to enable easy loading and unloading of larger items. It is also the only model capable of reaching a slightly higher temperature of 1100°C. Interestingly it is also a whopping 16.3kgs heavier than the other models so be sure to read the small print before committing to buy anything. (If portability is one of your main priorities this is not the model for you!)
All of the kilns can perform other tasks besides metal clay work, namely enamelling, annealing, low fire ceramic firing and glass fusing.
Joanna Varney
Joanna has worked in and around the jewellery industry for well over 20 years. She has designed and created her own pieces as a designer maker, as well as working in jewellery retail on a much larger scale, producing designs and NPD for some of the UK’s largest high street retailers