DIY Network

Hanging the Feeder and Kiln Maintenance Bill Van Gilder adds a hanger to the feeder; also, a few tips on maintaining a safe and efficient kiln. From "Throwing Clay" episode DTHC-113

Bill's birdfeeder has had a successful firing. Now all that's left to do is attach a hanger.

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He stretches and bends a coat hanger into a large curve. He threads it through the roof, then through the cylinder lugs, trims the ends to an equal length and bends the ends upward, securing the feeder tube to the roof (figure A). This feeder is hardy and can stay out year round. Just remember to keep it filled for your feathered friends (figure B).

Figure A

Figure B

	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F

Kiln Maintenance

A clean kiln, with a constant temperature, ensures all the time and energy spent mastering clay will result in well-fired uniform clayware. In Pennsylvania, L & L Kilns manufacturers, repairs and distributes kilns of all shapes and sizes. Steve Lewicki offers the following tips for routine kiln maintenance.

• The best way to keep a kiln working smoothly for a lifetime is with regular maintenance (figure C).

• After each firing, check to make sure glaze or clay hasn't penetrated into the element holders. Remove any particles clinging to the elements (figure D).

• Scrape off any clay or glaze on the kiln surface. Shop-vac any residue off the kiln surfaces.

• Over time and with regular use, the heating elements in the kiln will change their resistance, due to their exposure to high-temperature firings, and the kiln will slow down, taking longer to fire. At this point the owner can usually remove and easily replace the elements (figure E).

• Components most likely to need repair are the computer components and contacts; both are easily removed for repair and replacement (figures F).

• For basic information, always read the manual; it will have troubleshooting information, along with helpful operation, safety and maintenance instructions.

RESOURCES :

Kilns
L & L Kilns
Website: www.hotkilns.com

Clay
Highwater Clays
Website: www.highwaterclays.com

Extruders
American Art Clay Co. Inc. (AMACO)
Website: www.amaco.com