Slow That Kiln Down! Programming a Down Ramp for Better Results

How to Program a Down Ramp

Setting up a down ramp on your Bartlett controller is simple and can be done in just a few steps:

1. Load a Firing Program:
   • Use the Ramp Hold (RTC1000 & 3Key), Vary-Fire (V6CF), or Custom (Genesis) program.
   • Enter the firing segments as you normally would, including ramp rate, temperature, and hold time.
2. Add the Down Ramp Segment:
   • After programming your firing segments, add a final segment for the down ramp.
   • Set the temperature for this segment lower than the previous segment. For example:
     • Segment 3: Temperature set point – 2000°F
     • Segment 4 (Down Ramp): Temperature set point – 1800°F
3. Set the Ramp Rate:
   • Enter the rate at which the kiln should cool (degrees per hour). For example:
     • Cooling from 2000°F to 1800°F at a ramp rate of 200°F per hour will take 1 hour.
4. Set the Hold Time:
   • If you need the kiln to hold at the final temperature, set the hold time for the last segment. If no hold is needed, set it to 0.

Benefits of a Controlled Down Ramp

Using a down ramp can significantly improve your firing results:

• Enhanced Glaze Quality: Slower cooling can bring out better depth, color, and crystal development in certain glazes.
• Even Firing: A controlled cooling process ensures that all pieces in the kiln cool at a similar rate, reducing inconsistencies.
• Crack Prevention: Rapid cooling can cause thermal shock, leading to cracks in your pieces. A down ramp minimizes this risk.

Important Considerations

While a down ramp can improve your results, it’s essential to test and research how it will affect your specific glazes and materials. Some glazes may not respond well to slower cooling, so experimenting with different ramp rates and hold times is key to finding the perfect settings for your projects.