The Ultra Lite Beehive Kiln ©

Revised instructions for firing Metal Clay.

4/ 21/ 2010

With the addition of the ceramic insert placed on top of the element for firing metal clay the insulated element is operating hotter.

We are recommending the use of the temperature control:

· For an even temperature throughout the sintering process with the lid on.
· To prevent from melting metal clay in areas where there is high voltage.
· To compensate for hotter operating elements.
· Prolongs the element due to shorter firing times at a lower operating temperature.

Drying Metal Clay: Pieces should be completely dry before firing. To dry place a Ceramic Insert on the top of the Kiln cover while the Kiln is on. This provides a heated surface that will help your pieces dry quickly and thoroughly (Dries pieces in approximately 10 Minutes). Remove insert from the top prior to firing, leaving the insert on the top will lower kiln temperature.

Using the Temperature Control: Place one Insert on the heating element then cover the kiln and preheat by setting the controller to 100% for 30 minutes then set the dial to the desired temperature:

· High fire Metal Clay 85%
· Low fire Metal Clay 65%.

Firing: Place the dried Metal Clay on the insert allow for the small amount of smoke and flame to go out before covering. Keep covered for the required firing time, the piece should glow orange red (Salmon color)

Firing without the controller: Place one Insert on the heating element then cover the kiln and preheat for 45 minutes. Remove the lid, then place the dried Metal Clay on the heated insert (leaving the lid off the entire time), for proper sintering add 20 minutes to the recommended firing times. The piece should glow orange red (Salmon color) Between firings cover the kiln to reheat for 15 minutes.