Expert: Leisha Hiester - 3/13/2011

Question
I am having trouble with my Skutt thermocouples Type K flaking.  Skutt tells me this is the only type they now make.  Can you tell me what I can do to correct this as it is ruining all my glaze firings?  Thank you.

Answer
Dear Doris,
My husband is our resident kiln expert and has dealt with all my troubles. I will consult him this evening regarding your flaking. :) Leisha

Hello Doris,

I need to ask you a few questions so I can help you.  Can you give me the Model number of your kiln?  I will assume that by thermocouple you must have a digitally controlled kiln and this is the thermocouple that measures the temperature and gives the information to your controller to turn elements on and off, control the ramp, etc.  We have a Paragon kiln and the thermocouple is protected by a ceramic "bulb" that sits inside the kiln by about an inch or so.  Can you describe the thermocouple for me...or better still take a picture (I'm not sure if this site supports pictures...sorry.)

How many thermocouples are in the kiln?  I know some kilns have multiple zones and require multiple thermocouples to provide feedback to the controller.  I hate to ask this question and please don't be offended but is there kiln wash on the thermocouple?  I realize this is like asking if the kiln is plugged in while talking to computer tech support, however, this was the first thing that came to mind.  Next question is do you believe the ceramic is flaking off the thermocouple?  How do you know that it is the thermocouple that is causing the contamination?  Please let me know and I will try to help if I can.

thx, Dick

p.s. I love fixing stuff...:)