I am planning to convert an old electric kiln to a raku kiln. I am wondering if there is any reason not to introduce the smoke and reduction atmosphere into the kiln rather than remove the ware and reduce in separate containers. Combustibles would be added to a chamber built underneath the kiln (after turning off electricity to the elements) and any openings in the kiln closed up. It would then be left to cool on its own and opened the next day.
In my research so far most of the reasons not to use an electric kiln as a reduction kiln are not applicable
- the kiln will be outside on a large rural property with lots of airflow so toxic gases, carbon monoxide and upset neighbors should not be a concern.
- I'm not worried about element deterioration. When they no longer function adequately the kiln will be further converted to operate with a gas burner
- there is no need for rapid and/or multiple firings
I've read the postings here and found other sources that describe how to create a reduction environment in an electric kiln but all the sources I found dealing with raku using an electric kiln involve removing the items and reducing in containers. Do raku glazes require a fast cool to effect their color reactions or would the results be similar if left in the kiln after an adequate reduction environment had been created?
Any insights or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.