FAQ
How can I test fire the clay prior to firing my pieces?
It is always a good idea for new customers not familiar with the color of a proper sinter or the warning signs that the silver is about to melt to first try a small 1"x1/4" test strip the thickness of the pieces to be fired, The warning signs of the metal about to melt are if the silver begins to shimmer like mercury, if this happens quickly remove the lid to reduce the temperature then on the controller lower the setting one digit. To fine tune the temperature + or - 50 degrees F. You can do the following to increase temperature move the lid backward to the backside of the tapered opening on the front of the kiln. To decrease temperature move the lid forward to the frontside edge of the tapered opening. Proper sintering of the metal should glow a salmon color, to see this may require the lights down low. Once you become familiar with the firing process it should not require repeating the tests. After firing try the thumb test, bend the test strip over your thumb if you can bend it 120 degrees without cracking or breaking it is properly sintered. If it fails test it again adding more time.
How do I know what the temperature is when Firing Metal Clay?
Sintering of Precious Metal Clays in the UltraLite is accomplished at lower temperatures due to the piece being set directly on the heating element providing for the best heat transfer so it is important to follow the JEC Firing instructions for your specific product. You will be able to see the piece firing thru the opening in the front of the kiln it should glow an Orange/Red or Salmon color.
Downloadable firing instructions at: www.jecproducts.com
How can I protect the element surface when Enameling?
Use our new custom fit Mica Disk it will protect the element surface. It is made of the finest long lasting Mica available.
How are the Keum-Boo covers used?
Keum-boo is preform with one of the brass covers placed on-top of the kiln.
The Controller will allow you to adjust the temperature up or down depending on how fast you want the Gold to fuse.
How do I Anneal wire?
Annealing is preformed with the lid off simply install your wire or piece on the element and wait until it is glowing red. Use of the temperature controller to lower temperature may be necessary for very fine wire.
How to fuse Gold & Silver?
When fusing Precious metals put your piece in the kiln with the lid off. With handheld torch use a light sweeping motion, sweeping the flame back and forth until you see the flashing point of the metal quickly remove the flame.
Temperature Controller seems hot?
It is normal for the controller to get to 120 degrees F. roughly the same as hot water.