CAUTION INSTRUCTIONS FOR L&L KILNS
cautions.pdf
REV: 11/1/2016
Page 12
2016
L&L Kiln Mfg, Inc. 505 Sharptown Rd, Swedesboro NJ 08085 P:856.294.0077 F:856.294.0070 [email protected] hotkilns.com
GENERAL MAINTENANCE CAUTIONS
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
1. Shut off kiln when servicing it. Use an approved lock out/
tag out procedure to make sure that no one servicing the
kiln gets injured or killed.
2. The elements carry high voltage and can electrocute
you. Many of the tests described in the troubleshooting
manual are performed under power. They should be done
ONLY by someone who is familiar with electrical safety
such as an electrician or trained maintenance person.
3. As long as the kiln is unplugged or turned off at the fused
disconnect switch or circuit breaker (and checked with a
reliable meter to be sure) you are safe.
4. When checking element resistance, disconnect kiln
from power by unplugging kiln or turning off at the
fused disconnect switch or circuit breaker. Lock out if
appropriate.
CHECK WIRES & TERMINALS
1. Check wires for deterioration or oxidation or burns.
2. Replace any that seem brittle or where the wire insulation
has deteriorated, fallen off or burned off.
3. Check terminals for oxidation (discoloration).
4. If you are near salt air or if you notice corrosion on
the stainless exterior of the kiln for whatever reason (like
certain fumes generated by your work) then do this far more
frequently.
5. Check power connection terminals in the kiln and
control box for tightness. Be sure to do this with the power
disconnected (unplugged) for the kiln. If these terminal
connections get loose heat can be generated (because the
electrical resistance gets greater) and this can cause a fire.
6. Check thermocouple connections for corrosion, tightness
and oxidation as well. A bad thermocouple connection can
change the accuracy of the temperature reading which
could cause an overfiring.
CHECK TEMPERATURE OF CORD
1. Occasionally check temperatures of the main power cord
at the main receptacle and the main kiln breaker while the
kiln is at its hottest.
2. If these are hotter than normal, it could be a sign of a
loose or corroded connection, or possibly the wire gauge
used in the power hook-up is the wrong size for the amount
of current being drawn by the kiln.
3. Immediately diagnose and fix this because it could cause
a fire.
4. Also check temperature of any other cords on the kilns
(such as element jumper cords).
CHECK FOR CORRODED CONNECTIONS
1. When replacing infinite zone switches (and other electrical
components), replace the electrical connectors.
2. At the very least check for discoloration (an indication of
oxidation).
3. Electrical connectors will typically oxidize over time where
there is heat and this can cause further overheating of the
part at the connection point. This can in turn lead to early
failure of the part, wire and connector.
4. Make certain that the new connectors are firmly crimped
onto the wire.
THE WRONG PARTS CAN BE HAZARDOUS
1. Non-L&L elements can present a potential hazard to
the kiln or cause a fire (by drawing too much amperage).
2. The wrong type of fuse, relay, switch or other component
can cause a fire or other hazardous condition.
3. An improperly rated cord can cause a fire.
VIDEO ABOUT GENERAL MAINTENANCE
See this video for some general maintenance tips:
hotkilns.com/maintaining-kiln
