Why Vent A Kiln?
Venting is important to bring air into the kiln for successful firings and to remove fumes from your work area. Downdraft vents do both very well. Why is it important to have air in the kiln? Clay bodies, glazes, decals, lusters, etc. need air to fire properly. Many problems with color, glaze fit, and porcelain mildew occur because of too little oxygen in the kiln. What happens to air in the kiln? The products we fire contain organic materials. These react with oxygen to form carbon monoxide early in the firing. During firing, the gases in the kiln expand just like air in a hot air balloon. These gases are forced out through cracks and holes, making it difficult for new air to enter the kiln. How does a downdraft vent help my firing? The Orton downdraft vent pulls fumes out of the kiln, allowing air to enter. Electric kilns are naturally hotter at the top. With a downdraft vent, hot gases near the top of the kiln are drawn down, providing better temperature uniformity. Are there any he
