[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ theme_builder_area=”post_content” _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” type=”4_4″ theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.15.1″ _module_preset=”default” theme_builder_area=”post_content” text_text_color=”#000000″ header_text_color=”#E02B20″ header_2_text_color=”#E02B20″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

Cost of running a kiln

There’s a general perception that electrical kilns are expensive to run, but when compared to the cost of gas (especially in South Africa) it’s a more cost-effective choice.

Key information

To calculate the cost of running your kiln you will need to know the following information:

• How much electricity your kiln consumes in an hour. This is expressed in Kw. Most good manufacturers will state on the kiln (normally on an information plate on the kiln) the Kw used per hour – e.g. 10Kw
• You then need to know the cost per Kw. You should find this on your utility bill. This can be anything from R1.30 to R2.50 depending on your electricity supplier.
• Finally, you need to know how long your programme (or firing cycle) will be.

Firing programme example

This example is based on a 5.2 cu ft. front loading kiln:

• Electricity consumption per hour: 6.7Kw
• Cost per Kw: R2.50
• Total running time: 6 hours
  • • 1st ramp up to 500°C @ 250°C/hour = 2 hours
    • 1st soak for 1 hour = 1 hour
    • 2nd ramp up to 800°C @ 300°C/hour = 1 hour
    • 2nd soak for 2 hours = 2 hours

Cost Calculation:

• Consumption X Cost per Kw X Amount of hours
• 6.7Kw X R2.50/Kw X 6 hours) = R100.50

It will thus cost you R100.50 to run your kiln for a six hour cycle.

Please note this example is based on costs in South Africa in ZAR (Rands)

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]