ultra-lite kiln for PMC

[more534]

has anyone here used this?
and if so, what do you think?

I came across it on the Otto Frei website, and am intrigued. I like its wee-ness. It looks like it would be just the thing I need for my tiny work-shop.

[ajda]

Assuming this is the one...
http://www.ottofrei.com/Store/Kilns-for-ArtClay-Silver-PMC/Ultralite-Kiln-For-Silver-Clay-PMC-Granulation-Enamels-12.html

A couple of things that strike me:

1. It's 120v, so for UK you'd need a transformer - but I seem to remember you're in Canada (?) in which case that wouldn't be a problem for you.

2. I don't know how accurately you'd want to control temperature, but for me having no means of reading or controlling the temperature would be a problem, so you might need to factor in the cost of a controller. And the basic controller they offer has no temperature gauge - http://www.ottofrei.com/Store/Kilns-for-ArtClay-Silver-PMC/Ultralite-Kiln-Optional-Temperature-Control.html - so a separate pyrometer might be necessary as well, like one of these - http://www.clay-king.com/pyrometer.htm - though better still would be an all-in-one controller complete with pyrometer, such as this - http://www.kilncare.co.uk/kilns_controls_controllers_kcr2plugincontrol.html - but that costs a lot more than the kiln itself!

Alan

[more534]

thanks! I was considering the temp. gauge, which adds to the cost, which means really, I should just save my pennies and go for a paragon kiln.

Yes, I'm in Ontario. and also need to consider the exchange rate!

much to think about. :)

[Melanie]

for what its worth the paragon kilns are really good - plus you wouldn't be so limited like you would with the teeny kiln, in terms of what you can fire and how much you can fire. Can't imagine how anyone could fire without a programmer - sounds like a recipe for puddles of silver to me ;)

[more534]

and there just happens to be a Paragon dealer not too far away from me.

It's now on my Christmas list. :D

thanks for the good information. I've been learning TONS since joining this forum.

[more534]

well, I'm still thinking about a kiln, and still thinking about the paragons that have been recommended.
but my work has progressed a bit, so the investment will be worth while.
for some reason I can't post a photo.