Kiln program times for disc beads - Need Input

[spfa]

Hey all, I have the JenKen Kiln and I have mainly been using the BEADS 3 program setting for batch annealing. I have not had much success with DISC beads in batch annealing (they break in the silicone bubble slow cool method) as they are very delicate and thin.

I have attempted to anneal these in the JenKen Kiln BEAD 1 program where it goes to 960 degrees for over 4 hours, but it's seems like long annealing process and takes all day. Does anyone have a good recommendation on a good program time for these type of beads?

Any input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Sonya

[bryna75]

Is the 4 hours the garaging cycle? My chili pepper has an option to skip and go to the next step, check the user manual for your kiln.

[spfa]

Yes this is for the garage cycle. I have referred to the manual, but the manual does not tell me what cycle is best for these types of beads. Would a 2 hour garage hold time be adequate for this?

[bryna75]

The garage time should be however long you need to actually make the beads. The next step is the soak time that holds it for a set amount of time before it starts to ramp down.

[bryna75]

I meant to say earlier to check the manual to see how to skip to the 2nd step or the soak step once you are done making your beads.

[Little Brushy]

How about Program 4? If yours is programmed like mine (factory programming) it garages at 960 while you work and then you tell it when to go to the next cycle to soak and then ramp down. To end the garaging and go to the next cycle hit Increase, Program, Program. That will always take you to the next step in the annealing program. (I'm assuming your JenKen Kiln has the orton controller, as mine does. Your program 3 sounds the same, so I bet the controllers are the same.)

And yes, two hours is plenty of soak time for a disk bead. Depending on the size of your disk, two hours may be way overkill on the soak time.

Beth