Paragon Kiln - CT122822VIKING

Plenty of Power

All Vikings are digital. As with our standard TnF top-loading studio kilns, they feature an easy access switch box, pinless elements, and the LiteLid counter-balance spring system. But in addition, they come with built-in high amperage fuses, and heavy-duty mercury relays instead of our standard mechanical relays. Industrial mercury relays far outlast the standard mechanical relays and are also quieter.

The CT122822VIKING has the power to spare with 14,400 watts. (Note: We can also make the CT122822VIKING for international electrical systems.) The extra wattage helps compensate for aging elements or low voltage. This is ample power to reach cone 10 and, if you ever need it, to fire rapidly. Elements last longer because the extra wattage and thicker 3" firebricks help the elements reach porcelain and stoneware temperatures without strain. Since the kiln can fire stoneware, it can naturally handle low-fire ceramics with ease.

Sectional Construction

You can separate the CT122822VIKING kiln bottom and sections to repair bricks, change elements, or move the kiln down narrow stairwells or through narrow doorways. Heavy-duty twist-lock spring latches securely hold the assembled kiln sections. Sectional kilns are ideal for older buildings in areas such as New York City or in homes with basements. The kiln is easy to maintain—the stainless steel case of each kiln section includes case tighteners.

Why the Top Wall Bricks Resist Wear

The top row of bricks in the CT122822VIKING is 2” high and without element grooves. Since the brick row is solid, it is less susceptible to damage during loading than a grooved brick. And should you ever need to replace a top brick, just loosen the stainless steel case tighteners of the top section and slide the brick out.

The top row of firebricks not only lasts longer than the top row in competitive kilns, but they also give you a bonus of two inches of extra firing chamber depth. Compare the 22 1/4” depth of the CT122822VIKING with that of 12-sided competitive brands.

The CT122822VIKING uses deluxe 3” thick firebricks throughout the sidewalls, the reversible brick bottom, and the 3” thick lid. The peepholes, both sides of the lid, and the top rim of the sidewall firebrick are hardened and sealed with a special refractory coating that reduces dusting.

Even Heat Distribution

Enjoy even heat distribution for consistent firing results. The elements are “tuned,” which means hotter elements are placed in the top and bottom of the firing chamber, where extra heat is needed. This results in superior heat distribution without the need for 3-zone temperature control. (However, you can order 3-zone if you want it.)

Heavy Duty Throughout

Wires are fastened to the elements with heat-dissipating connectors refined and proven for many years in Paragon kilns. Long-lasting, thick elements are seated in dropped, recessed brick grooves, which eliminate the need for element pins. (Since the elements are not pinned, they are faster to replace than the elements of some competitive models.) Costly heavy-gauge nickel-plated copper wiring is covered with high-temperature glass-braided insulation.

UL/CUL / NEC compliant high-amperage fuses protect the kiln and circuit wiring. These fuses are built into the kiln switch box—just one more thoughtful touch that you will find in a Paragon Viking.

A heavy galvanized steel base completely covers the reversible brick bottom. It folds up under the stainless steel case on all 12 sides to strengthen the firing chamber and protect the bottom. Unlike competitive brands, you can move your Paragon without worrying about the stand digging into the firebrick bottom. This is one more assurance that your Paragon kiln is built to last.

The Ease of Digital Firing

You will be amazed at the convenience of a digital temperature controller. The reliable, solid-state Sentry controller continually monitors the firing so you can spend your time making pottery or working in your studio without closely watching the kiln. (Please remember, however, to check the kiln during firing and to monitor it near the expected shutoff time.) The attractive sealed touch pad keeps out dust and wipes clean in seconds.

You will discover, to your delight, that the controller has powerful features. Yet we have also worked hard to make the controller as simple as possible to use.

Do you ever wonder how much electricity your kiln uses? Or how much a slow cooling actually costs per load? Does slow firing cost more than fast firing? The digital controller can figure the electrical costs for you with the press of a button. Find out how little a kiln actually costs to fire. Learn to conserve energy by experimenting with firing speed, load density, etc.

Patented, Easy-to-Lift Lid

The massive lid is easy to lift with Paragon's patented LiteLid spring counter-balance. It does away with cumbersome pulleys and cords and reduces lid weight to only several pounds of pressure. Most people can lift the lid with one hand. Unlike pulleys and weights, the LiteLid is self-contained on the kiln. The LiteLid sharply reduces wear between the lid and top rim of firebrick. The truss and floating lid, a patented exclusive, allow expansion of the lid as the firebricks expand. Ask competitors if their lid spring includes a truss and floating lid.

Easy-Access Patented Switch Box

Hinged at the bottom, the switch box on the CT122822VIKING and most of Paragon’s other top-loading studio kilns opens forward for easy maintenance. It even includes a folding support arm, which holds the box in the open position. The Sentry micro-processor controller is mounted near the top of the switch box within easy reach. Operate the controller from a comfortable height.

Heavy Duty Kiln Stand Included

A kiln stand is included at no extra charge. The 24” wide stand for 10- and 12-sided kilns supports the brick bottom with framing that is 4 ½” wide across the top of each side. The stand is rock-steady, with a 16-gauge frame and heavy 12-gauge legs. The stand is complete with mar-proof plastic feet and tall enough to accommodate the optional Orton Vent Master. (Note: The stand requires assembly.)

If you will need to move your kiln out of the way when not in use, order an optional deluxe kiln stand with casters. (See below in the Options section.)

Low Emission Paint

The glistening CT122822VIKING is proudly made in America to exacting quality standards. The kiln’s switch box has a durable high temperature, water-base finish. We chose water-based paint because of the low emissions during spraying. This creates a safer working environment for our employees in our Mesquite, Texas factory and cuts down on pollution.

Thermocouple with “special limit” wire

The thermocouple senses temperature inside the kiln. It is the small rod that extends into the firing chamber. The ¼” wide Type-K, 14-gauge, exposed-tip thermocouple is made with special-limit wire for superior accuracy. The exposed tip gives the controller a fast response time for even temperatures during holds. The thermocouple is made in America to our exacting standards.

OPTIONAL Tall Heavy Duty Rolling Stand, 32” Square x 12” High

A deluxe, rock-solid kiln stand with locking casters, is now an option. STANDS ARE NOT INCLUDED. Please check the options box if you would like a stand included with your kiln order. You will enjoy the convenience of effortlessly moving the kiln out of the way when not in use. The stand is rock solid. It fits together with interlocking components that assemble with one size of bolt. (Ships unassembled.)

The 12” tall stand raises the kiln to a convenient height for loading and unloading. Should you need a vent, merely slide the collection cup of an Orton vent into a mounting bracket on the top of the stand. The stands are a massive 32” square with solid tops to fully support the firebrick bottom of your kiln.

Take advantage of the heat that radiates from the kiln. Load greenware on the lower shelf. Heat from the kiln will dry the ware to prepare it for the next firing. Save the time and electrical expense of drying the ware inside the kiln.

Assemble the stand with simple tools. The stand slides together with interlocking components that assemble with one size of bolt.

 Kiln Accessories

Need more for your kiln? Explore more safety and other accessories here.