Kingpin 88
Installation and Operating Manual
North American and Global Models
June 2014
Page
7
of
7
Firing Cautions and Tips
Crash or Flash Venting
Caution:
There is a technique called “Crash Venting” or “Flash Venting” that is used in some firing procedures, most notably glass firing. This
involves opening the kiln at high temperature in an attempt to cool it very quickly and to stop any further changes to the glass. It’s a valid and
popular technique but it does come with some risk. Specifically: risk of burns. If you attempt this procedure be aware that the hot gases in the
kiln will escape very quickly.
First and Foremost – Keep Your Face Away and Stand Back
. Wear eye protection capable of filtering Infrared and
Ultraviolet light (IR and UV), gloves capable of surviving expected chamber temperatures and loose fitting cotton clothing. Also be aware of
your surrounding environment. Always make sure there are no flammable or combustible materials near. You should be doing this anyway but
be aware. When the door is opened a lot of heat comes pouring out quickly and it needs to go somewhere so give it plenty of room. After the
bulk of the heat has escaped you may wish to approach the kiln more closely. If so, do so slowly and with care.
Ware Manipulation
Caution:
Some firing techniques involve using manipulation tools or require chamber access during the firing process. Before using any such
techniques throw the power switch to the OFF position. Not doing so creates an unsafe condition. Making contact with energized heating
elements is dangerous and may cause serious injury or death. Also please note that there is a burn risk. If you attempt any procedures involving
opening and/or entering a kiln that is firing be aware that the hot gases in the kiln will escape very quickly.
First and Foremost – Keep Your Face
Away and Stand Back
. Wear eye protection capable of filtering Infrared and Ultraviolet light (IR and UV), gloves capable of surviving expected
chamber temperatures and loose fitting cotton clothing. Also be aware of your surrounding environment. Always make sure there are no
flammable or combustible materials near. You should be doing this anyway but be aware. When the door is opened a lot of heat comes pouring
out quickly and it needs to go somewhere so give it plenty of room. After the bulk of the heat has escaped you may wish to approach the kiln
more closely. If so, do so slowly and with care.
Venting
Venting: Venting is a fairly common procedure used during the firing process. It helps to bring fresh oxygenated air into the firing chamber
while expelling depleted air and burn off. This is particularly useful when color or adhesives are involved. Venting can also be used to speed up
the cooling process. Generally speaking, venting usually occurs in the beginning of the firing when burn off from adhesives, decals or other
related materials is expected. Once the kiln reaches “Red Heat” (about 1000°F) it’s generally acceptable to close the vent. Keep in mind that
venting requires manipulating the door and/or vent plug (located at top of kiln) and venting while the kiln is firing means it’s going to be hot.
First and Foremost – Keep Your Face Away and Stand Back
. Wear eye protection capable of filtering Infrared and Ultraviolet light (IR and UV),
gloves capable of surviving expected chamber temperatures and loose fitting cotton clothing. Also be aware of your surrounding environment.
Always make sure there are no flammable or combustible materials near. You should be doing this anyway but be aware. When the door
and/or vent plug are opened or removed some heat does come out quickly and you do.
