Testing the kiln atmosphere
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Testing the kiln atmosphere
Sometimes a kiln may be reducing only slightly and it is difficult to tell, because no flame is visible in the flue. Try this: hold a strip of newspaper in front of a freshly opened spy hole. If the paper just burns or gets sucked in towards the spy hole, the kiln is oxidizing. If the paper is blown out and away from the spy hole, the kiln is reducing. Try different damper settings to get the effect you want. Warning: Reduction firings create carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas, and must be done in well ventilated areas, preferably outside. Do not try wearing a gas mask with a gas filter as compensation -- the carbon monoxide molecules are so small that a gas filter, - even a good one - will not hold it back. Drowsiness and loss of concentration area signs of beginning carbon monoxide poisoning.
| Guru Spotlight |
| Jerry Mayo |
