Test Glazes
Although you can test glazes in any kiln that will fire your normal production work, many people who do this extensively choose a small kiln for this purpose. It is best to match the control type of the kiln you are testing in with the kiln you will be doing production work in. In any case, be sure to match the actual ramp rates and holds of the two kilns. It may be possible to fire faster in the test kiln but you want to program it so it mimics the program of the production kiln.
Challenges
Even with the same control options and the same schedules, the size of any kiln will alter how it fires. You wont be able to mimic loading pattern and it will be hard to get the same rate of ventilation. This being said, it is always smart to test any clay and glaze combination before using it on and entire kiln-load of work.
Kilns
Most testing goes on in a smaller kiln with the same control feature. Our doll/test kiln can be configured with any of our control options. For a slightly larger test kiln the E18 series kilns and the Liberty Belle are great options.
