unless you're willing to sacrifice everything to the rock gods. I'm using a
Paragon - Touch N Fire programmable controller, Model #DTC100 that was
picked up from Tom Richter (TJ Copper) a couple of years ago. I love it!
I have three different temperature probes to reference with. The controller, which gives ambient temp. in the kiln and two dial thermometers (150-750 degrees), one in the bottom section and one in the center of bucket (10ga.). It takes about 2 1/2 hrs. for the middle temp. to reach the controlled setting. No more baby sitting. Ramp time on this particular model is 100 degrees an hour. They make one in 25 degrees for about an additional $200.00. My Wife said I could live with this one ... Literally. I use sand as a filler between slabs. Other knappers I've spoken to say it isn't necessary but it works for me. The only hard rules I've found are taking temperatures Up & Down ... Slow.
