Loading the new kiln (Skutt KMT 818) for it's first firing. It seems wasteful to fire it empty, but it's recommended.
The reasons I've heard are to let the elements build up an oxide layer before being exposed to anything more corrosive from the clay or glaze, or to burn off the oil coating on the elements before it can affect any pieces. Either way, it sounds like a good idea, and there's the added bonus of Skutt providing a firing schedule and cones to check against.
If the cones bend correctly in the standard cone 04 schedule then I know the kiln is firing as intended. I put one on the bottom shelf, and added an 06 and an 05 to the top as they were the only cones I have for similar temperatures. They'll only be of use if it underfires, otherwise they'll be melted flat.
If this goes correctly then I'll fire a glaze load with of a bunch of scrap pieces I have lying around. If that goes well then I'm back in business!
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