How much weight can go in a kiln?

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How much weight can go in a kiln?

Although this is not something that we have specifically tested for, the general answer is about 50 to 75 pounds per square foot of bottom surface area.

For an Easy-Fire, Jupiter, Doll, Chameleon, Dura-Fire, etc., figure 50 pounds per square foot of bottom surface area.

For a DaVinci figure 75 pounds per square foot of bottom surface area.

The other factor is that the brick is mostly non-compressible as long as the load is spread out evenly. I would recommend that your customer put a hearth plate right on the bottom of the kiln on top of the firebrick to spread out any weight.

Additional Actions to Take

Vary Methods of Loading Weight
  1. If uneven firing occurs persistently, vary methods of loading weight to match the firing characteristics of the kiln.
  2. If elements typically fire hot at the top of the kiln put more weight in the top to absorb that heat, and vice versa.
  3. Ensure that weight is put at posts under the bottom shelf. The bottom shelf should be at least 1/2" to 1" above the floor of the kiln.

TIP: The longer posts can be laid down on their sides to get a perfect amount of space under the bottom shelf.

Applies to these Kiln Series

Applies to these Old Kiln Series