rolling blackouts

[designerbeads]

we are having rolling blackouts this week due to a major storm in Toronto so it's hard to plan kiln time. If I make beads and anneal them later what is the best method to prevent losses? I have a don mckinney toolbox kiln that I ramp by hand.

Laurie

[RSimmons]

I would go ahead and load them into the hot kiln as you make them. If you have it, keep some fiber blanket close by and cover the kiln if the power goes down. This will slow the cooling rate and make thermal cracks less likely. Even if you don't have the fiber blanket the kiln will cool slow enough such that you're less likely to have major breakage. You can ramp back up and properly anneal when you know that you will have stable power later on.

Robert

[designerbeads]

thanks Robert, I will try that.

Laurie

[windsong1]

Hi Laurie!!
I feel like a real lampworker now. I recognized your beads. I took your fabulous class this year in Ottawa. I am assuming that you didn't get flooded out if you're still working. I hope that all is well with you and your family and friends in Toronto.
Ann

[designerbeads]

Thanks Ann!

It was an unusual storm.
I did get some water, fortunately I did not lose any equipment and I can still work. Am running a dehumidifier now and hoping for no more power outages.

Cheers, Laurie