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PROMOTION Ecotop model versions from 20 to 145 litres volume HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT KILN by Paul Good Temperature When it comes to temperature information, ROHDE kilns differentiate between the application temperature and the maximum temperature. Maximum temperature: the maximum temperature (Tmax) is the maximum temperature defined by ROHDE at which a kiln can be safely operated. All materials used are designed in such a way that when used in accordance with the operating instructions up to the specified Tmax, no damage is caused to the kiln or the surrounding area. Application temperature: the different series and products in our range are designed to be used reliably for the specified application temperature (Tapp) – optimally and continuously. The application temperature ensures that the kiln is optimised, and will regularly reach the temperature or temperature range safely and efficiently. The application temperature has a lower energy consumption and operates economically – it does not overload or overly wear the materials, and achieves good heating rates and good heat distribution. Typical temperature applications in the arts and crafts sector are: • Bisque firing in the 800°C–950°C range • Earthenware firing or decoration firing at approximately 1050°C • Earthenware at approximately 1150°C • Stoneware and soft porcelain in the 1200°C–1300°C range • Hard porcelain at approximately 1350°C Kiln size Kiln size should be determined by the size of the ware to be fired and the firing rhythm of the maker. Large kilns only work economically if they are tightly loaded. However, large individual pieces require a bigger kiln. The somewhat higher initial costs for a customised kiln construction may break-even within a short period of time. When planning the details for interior dimensions, consider a buffer in empty spaces / unheated areas. The kiln volume of many ROHDE top-loader models can also be increased by fitting in an extension ring. This not only makes it significantly easier to transport your kiln, but also allows it to be adjusted to additional requirements later. 66 | THE JOURNAL OF AUSTRALIAN CERAMICS | APRIL 2024

Design Whether round, rectangular or square, whether you load from front, top or a kiln floor that is pulled out, there are no limits to design options. The choice depends on your individual conditions and requirements. • Top loading: good overview of the firing chamber – choose a top-loader • Front loading: effective use of kiln height – choose a front-loader • Loading from more than one side: optimal efficiency, safety and ergonomics – choose a hood kiln or the ELS Ergo Load System Quality The quality of a kiln is demonstrated by durability, firing results, functional safety, energy consumption, and the necessity for spare parts. The design of ROHDE products is outstanding in all these aspects, providing the highest product confidence. High-quality material and construction properties such as a V2A stainless steel jacket or a completely ventilated steel frame guarantee highest quality and corrosion protection. The top and walls are joined mortar-free, which is not only attractive but allows natural thermal expansion of the kiln, preventing cracks and particles falling from the ceiling onto the ware. These are optimal prerequisites for a long service life, reliable functionality, and first-class results. Elements The way heating elements are mounted in electric kilns makes a difference. Elements recessed into grooved bricks are protected against damage, whereas elements mounted on support rods provide good heat radiation, and these elements can be more easily replaced. Technically solid dimensions for heating elements and the use of high-quality Kanthal wire are important requirements for highest performance and efficiency. When it comes to exact calculation, ROHDE considers a low surface load, a good gradient factor, and the highest possible wire strength as decisive factors for durability and power reserve. Solar power Under the motto Solar Ready, ROHDE supports the conscious and sustainable use of resources and therefore welcomes the use of renewable energies such as solar power to operate your ROHDE kiln. Under optimal conditions, ROHDE kilns, up to a certain size, can be operated solely by your self-produced solar power from your own photovoltaic (PV) system. Of course, this also depends on the execution of your PV system and good weather conditions, such as a cloudless sunny day at midday in summer. If certain conditions are not met in order to use the self-produced solar power directly in the kiln, battery storage is necessary in the PV system to use your own solar power without having to rely on energy from the public grid. The ROHDE myKiln app is now used to determine the optimal starting point for firing using directly self-produced solar power. In the app, firing with solar power can be programmed. The ROHDE myKiln app displays a setpoint curve and the required time for the specified firing programme. With the time required for the respective phases of the firing displayed in the firing programme, you can determine the time of day at which the firing must best be started to be able to use the optimum output of the PV system. For example, the high-energy heating phase can be scheduled for midday, when the PV system has a very high solar power generation capacity. You can then conveniently send the firing programme for firing with solar power to your kiln controller ST 310 or ST 411. interdec-australia.com.au/productcategory/rohde-kilns Specialist trade partner: Interdec Australia, Warehouse 19, 14-16 Innovation Drive, Totness SA 5250 Phone 0439 033 002, www.interdec-australia.com.au | 67

Page Text

PROMOTION

Ecotop model versions from 20 to 145 litres volume

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT KILN

by Paul Good

Temperature When it comes to temperature information, ROHDE kilns differentiate between the application temperature and the maximum temperature.

Maximum temperature: the maximum temperature (Tmax) is the maximum temperature defined by ROHDE at which a kiln can be safely operated. All materials used are designed in such a way that when used in accordance with the operating instructions up to the specified Tmax, no damage is caused to the kiln or the surrounding area. Application temperature: the different series and products in our range are designed to be used reliably for the specified application temperature (Tapp) – optimally and continuously. The application temperature ensures that the kiln is optimised, and will regularly reach the temperature or temperature range safely and efficiently. The application temperature has a lower energy consumption and operates economically – it does not overload or overly wear the materials, and achieves good heating rates and good heat distribution. Typical temperature applications in the arts and crafts sector are: • Bisque firing in the 800°C–950°C range • Earthenware firing or decoration firing at approximately 1050°C • Earthenware at approximately 1150°C • Stoneware and soft porcelain in the 1200°C–1300°C range • Hard porcelain at approximately 1350°C Kiln size Kiln size should be determined by the size of the ware to be fired and the firing rhythm of the maker. Large kilns only work economically if they are tightly loaded. However, large individual pieces require a bigger kiln. The somewhat higher initial costs for a customised kiln construction may break-even within a short period of time. When planning the details for interior dimensions, consider a buffer in empty spaces / unheated areas. The kiln volume of many ROHDE top-loader models can also be increased by fitting in an extension ring. This not only makes it significantly easier to transport your kiln, but also allows it to be adjusted to additional requirements later.

66 | THE JOURNAL OF AUSTRALIAN CERAMICS | APRIL 2024

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