Recommendation? So I was given a kiln...

K

KevinD

Joined
Jan 28, 2007
Messages
7
A neighbor gave me a sizable raku kiln, knowing I'm starting to make knives. But, it needs a lot of work.

It's a modular Skutt electric kiln. It had a KilnSitter controller for the sections, but they're scrap. The elements would need to be replaced.

Is it worth it to try and bring this thing back to life? Or should I consider just converting it to a forge? Pulling a section and the divider would make it small enough that it SHOULD be efficient enough to use.

I need lots of help!
 
Well most “kilns” need to be modified with digital pid controls to work good for heat treating. And if the elaments need replacing that could be a decent expense as well. But even if it was in working condition thy are designed for long heat times in the order of hours not minutes. Generally a knife oven will hit 1500° in 20-30 min and 2000° in 45-60min. Big ovens like that one could take hours upon hours to get to temp. So thy end up being big time and energy wasters. Plus the fact opening the top lid at those temps releases a flood of heat. All in all your looking at probably anywhere from $300-$500 (wild ass guess) to get the electronics sorted. Could be more depending on how bad it is.

If your just wanting to make a forge then buy $50-$100 of fire brick or wool (I’m a brick fan) and build and enclosure. Some times we as people step over dollars to save dimes.
 
Thanks, that explains it a lot better. Sounds a little more like the neighbor wanted to clear out some space.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top