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opening kiln while it's hot

updated fri 2 apr 04

 

Jeff Tsai on thu 1 apr 04


Some people have been asking whether it is a good idea or damaging to open a
kiln at 350 degrees. If everyone who owns the kiln agrees to do it, why not.
Just be aware of what it does.

It does cause stress to the kiln furniture. It does cause more crazing to
occur than if you waited, but then how perfectly are our glazes fitted to the
clays? How much crazing can occur just from use and washing. So long as you are
aware that the life of your kiln furniture may be slightly reduced and all are
willing to accept it for love of looking, then why not.

-jeff