Kiln Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining a Ceramic Kiln Properly
Many beautiful pieces of art are created using a ceramic kiln. Exact heat is a necessary component of producing well fired pieces. Ceramic kiln elements must be well maintained in order to keep them running and performing properly. Cone, swivel and sensing rod maintenance are vital in assuring correct functioning of kilns.

Amaco Kiln Cement		Amaco Kiln Wash In Powder Form
Price: $21		Price: $52
Brand: Amaco		Brand: Amaco
For sealing cracks and chips in kiln wall, floors, door, and other fire brick pieces.		Mix with water and brush on all shelves and kiln bottom before firing.

Maintaining these parts of your kiln is discussed briefly in the following.

• Cone supports are a vital part of your kilns operation. You should make sure that kiln wash does not build up on these. Use a hard bristled or metal brush to clean cone supports. In the case that non-removable materials collect on supports, they will have to be replaced.

• Kiln swivels are cleaned to avoid the build-up of residue. Build-up will cause the sensing rod to stop moving properly. As a result, this will cause kiln to heat up abnormally. Cleaning can be done by removing claw from sensing rod. Maneuver sensing rod in and out while rotating sensing rod. Sensing rods should be checked each time a kiln is fired. Make sure the rod’s end was not dented in the high kiln heat. If it has begun to bend, it will have to be replaced.