Keith bottom loading kilns are ideal when you need versatility and consistent product quality.    This is especially true for new processes still being developed.  Flexibility is also important for products that require you to fire different cycles from day to day, or in small lots to as high as 1700C/3100F.

Combining 50 years of kiln building experience with the latest technology and modern materials enables Keith to deliver advanced kiln technology at competitive prices.  These kilns are well suited for calcining, firing, and sintering oxide ceramic parts (alumina, zirconia, etc.), technical ceramics, co-fired substrate materials, capacitors, filters, thermistors, ferrites, and more.    

Operational Benefits

• Compact design saves floor space
• Heating system delivers more uniform process heat
• Energy efficient and durable refractory construction
• Cars facilitate loading and unloading
• Highly reliable automatic process control systems
• Ease of operation and maintenance

General Capabilities

• Temperatures to 1650 C/3000 F with gas, and 1700 C/3100 F with electric heating
• Wire, rod overbend, silicon carbide, or molybdenum disilicide heating elements
• Chamber volumes up to 6 m3 (200 ft3)
• Single or multiple zones of temperature control
• Cars, venting, and controlled atmosphere systems
• Integration with material handling automation
• PC/PLC control systems
• Designed to any available voltage

Construction

Insulation systems of brick, ceramic fiber, or a combination of both provide the right balance of durability, rapid heating and cooling, and energy efficiency.  The loading platform may be fixed on the elevator, or on a rolling car.  Electromechanical elevator systems provide safe, reliable and user-friendly operation for many years. 

Process Controls

Highly accurate microprocessor-based programmable  control systems are standard on all kilns, with fully integrated process event sequencing and alarm annunciation.  Tightly controlled atmospheres and partial oxygen pressures can be maintained in some designs.  Controls are mounted either in a free standing or wall-mounted enclosure, depending on the size of the system.   Remote monitoring and data-logging via computer is a popular option.

Contact a Keith specialist to review your specific needs and explore equipment alternatives.