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coneart vs. l&l

updated sun 3 jul 05

 

jesse hull on fri 1 jul 05


I've already gone into this in the past, I'd suggest
going back over the clayart thread archives.
But, for the record, L&L hands down...
~jesse.

~jessehull.

www.jessehull.com
www.latticestructures.com

Susan MacLean on fri 1 jul 05


Hi All,
I am trying to decide between a ConeArt 1822 (3.3 cu feet) and an L&L e23S with 3
inch brick (4.6 cu feet) and was hoping for some input. This is going to be a hobby
kiln, but it will still get used quite often.

I like the way the elements are placed in the L&L and that it comes with the interior
already treated with a protective, reflective coating. The L&L seems very well made
and easy to maintain. I don't think I need 4.6 cubic feet inside, but the Liberty Belle
model is too small and isn't UL listed.

On the other hand, the ConeArt with its double wall insulation is better insulated than
the L&L. This slows cool down, and from what I can tell from research it probably
uses about 15% less energy than a similar kiln with 3" brick. The smaller inside
capacity would also require less energy. On the down side, the elements are placed
in the traditional way with pins in grooves in the brick. L&L claims that this can
cause brick damage over time from the expansion and contraction of the elements
as well as causing the elements to wear out faster because the brick insulates the
elements from the inside of the kiln and I guess makes them work harder or
something. The lack of reflective coating is not that big a deal; I can simply spray one
on myself.

If anyone has any thoughts on these issues, I would love to hear them!

Thank you and Happy 4th of July to all,
Susan

Carol Tripp on sat 2 jul 05


Hi Susan,
The best way to get the most information is to go to
http://www.potters.org/categories.htm
Then find the Kilns section and hit Manufacturers. Everyone has an opinion
and they are all there - no waiting!
Personally, I have an L&L but I will follow my mother's advice (for once)
and not say anything at all about it.

Best regards,
Carol
Dubai, UAE

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