Paragon Super Dragon Digital Front-Loading Kilns

The Paragon Super Dragon is an industrial furnace designed for pottery and ceramic studios. Surprisingly affordable, this front-loading kiln is loaded with features.

The Super Dragon exudes power. Its 21,600 watts heat the 36"H × 27"W × 27"D (15.18 cu ft) interior to Cone 10 (2350°F) with ample power to spare. This results in long element life, because the elements do not "struggle" to reach high temperatures. Dropped, recessed grooves seat industrial-gauge elements.

The Super Dragon's extra insulation saves energy and lengthens cooling. The 4" thick walls, top, and door are made of 3" firebrick backed by 1" of ceramic fiber block insulation. The floor is 4½" thick firebrick.

This extra insulation not only saves energy but also cools the kiln slowly without requiring the elements to be turned back on. This gives the micro-crystalline structure and color of the glaze sufficient time for full development. Cooling slowly achieves dramatic shifts in glaze color such as iron reds, for the richer look of gas firing.

The elements are "tuned," which means hotter elements are placed in areas of the firing chamber that require more heat. This results in superior heat distribution.

The Sentry 2.0 digital controller is standard on Paragon front-loading pottery kilns. Results are repeatable from one firing to the next with astounding accuracy. The solid-state controller continually monitors the firing.

The Sentry 2.0 also tracks how much energy is being used when users program the kiln's wattage and the cost of electricity into the controller. Experimenting with firing speed, load density, and other factors can result in energy savings.

The Type-K thermocouple, hermetically sealed for accuracy, is standard with the Paragon Super Dragon. Long-lasting mercury relays power the elements, and a bank of built-in NEC/UL-compliant high-amperage fuses protect the kiln and circuit wiring.

Potters who struggle with top-loading kilns will enjoy the Super Dragon. The door swings open on a heavy hinge with sealed bearings, fastened to a 2" tubular steel frame that extends from the floor to the top of the kiln. A floating door system features four spring door latches.

The ventilated switch box is generously louvered for air circulation, assuring long life of the electrical components — yet dust is kept to a minimum.

The Super Dragon includes a built-in stand and two tapered peepholes in the side of the kiln. It fits through 42" high doorway.