4 Tips to Prevent Hazardous Situations When Using a Kiln
Operating a kiln can be fun and exciting, but they are potentially very dangerous if not used properly. Here are some tips you should follow if you plan to own and/or operate a kiln so you can prevent potentially dangerous situations.
Use high temperature ceramic coating
A high temperature ceramic coating is a necessity when it comes to preventing hazardous circumstances with your kiln. ITC HT ceramic coatings (high temp ceramic coatings) are used to protect the inside of your kiln and its elements. High temp coatings radiate and disperse the heat produced in your kiln and they protect the surfaces that they cover. ITC ceramic coating creates top-notch temperature uniformity with high temperature tolerance at the same time. The high temperature ceramic coating prevents heat loss and increases the refraction of heat. This means there is less chance for heat damage, and you're saving money.
Wear eye protection
Your kiln gets very hot, and it gives off light that can hurt your eyes. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) recommends infrared goggles or hand-held welding shields when you're looking into the operating kiln. Shade number between 1.7 and 3.0 is recommended, but you may need to go darker if spots appear in front of your eyes when you look away from the kiln. You don't want to damage your eyes in any way.
Keep away certain materials
Because your kiln can reach incredibly hot temperatures, there are certain materials that should not be near it. For example, lead compounds will vaporize when they get too hot, so it's best to keep them away from your kiln. You also should keep lumber, paper, solvents, and other flammable and combustible materials away from your kiln to prevent a fire or even an explosion.
Check for gas leaks
Lastly, you want to make sure you are regularly checking for gas leaks. To do this, you should shut off the power source for your kiln at the circuit breaker. Then, call the gas company to do a routine inspection. You can also test for leaks with nonfat, soapy water or use other approved leak-detection methods to check for leaks yourself.
The earliest known kilns date all the way back to 6,000 BCE, and they were capable of firing up to 900 degrees Celsius, or 1,652 degrees Fahrenheit. Today, temperatures for kilns vary from as low as 1,382 degrees Fahrenheit up to 2,372 degrees Fahrenheit for stoneware and 2,642 degrees Fahrenheit for porcelain. Because they get so hot, you want to use high temperature ceramic coating, wear eye protection, keep certain things away from the kiln, and regularly check for gas leaks. These tips can help you prevent a potentially hazardous situation that may cost you a lot of money or even your life.