Hi there,
I've just received my first kiln- a Paragon Caldera- and I'm really excited about using it! I've looked everywhere for information about firing it for the first time, but the manufacturer hasn't sent it with the manual and its not on their website. Does anyone here know what to fire it to and for how long- and does it need to be completely empty i.e. pre-kiln wash etc?
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! I have contacted Paragon but am still waiting for them to get back to me.
Many Thanks
Sue
I can't specify accurate info in relation to the Caldera, but I can tell you what I did when I first got my Prometheus. There was no first fire instructions with mine either.
I ramped it up to 520 degrees over a couple of hours, and then ramped down over an hour and then switched it off.
I think that the key thing with a first fire (and I may be wrong here, please feel free to correct me anyone) is for you to have the kiln reach the temperature that you will be regularly using (for me 520 degrees) on an empty run, to make sure that there are no problems.
Good luck and have fun! ;D
Here's the manual - http://www.paragonweb.com/files/manuals/IM211.pdf
Rachel is pretty much right there, fire it up to the temperature you'll be using it for.
No you don't need to do the kiln wash for the test firing.
If the kiln has a bung, leave it out, so any manufacturing residue can burn off. Don't panic if it smells!
Sue, take a look through the Kilns section of the forum there's loads of advice, maybe not specific to Caldera, although I know few people have them. IIRC most Paragons have the same type of controller.
Who did you buy it from? I think it's down to them to send you instructions!! Although I have heard Paragon are great to deal with.
Oh, well done Di!
Well I had a quick look and it's the manual that came with mine so should do the job :)
Thanks guys, that's all really helpful! I'll read the manual with a fine tooth comb and figure it out! Fingers crossed- I can't wait to get stuck in!
Best wishes
Sue
Its the kiln I have and thats what i did but, as they do it stinks first couple of firings so ventilate well and dont hang around it ;)