Pulley System for Heavy Kiln Lids
If you have a large kiln with a heavy lid, such
as an oval-shaped "coffin kiln" from one of the major kiln
manufacturers, you've probably discovered that the weight of the lid
makes it difficult to raise and lower. It's possible to
purchase a "kiln lifter" to help with the task, or to install a
small electric winch to make lifting the lid easier, but those
solutions can be more expensive than a simple pulley and rope
system.
There are many different types of pulley systems,
but the one that will be described here is one of the most simple.
It can be used for a lid on a large "coffin kiln" or on smaller
kilns (such as a 24" multi-sided brick kiln).
Installation does not require any special skills
or mechanical aptitude. You will, however, need to securely screw a
pulley into a ceiling beam where your kiln is located, so this
solution works best when your kiln is in a garage, basement, or
industrial location.
The materials to install a pulley system are
available in most hardware stores. You'll also need a few
weights (such as from a basic weight lifting set). All
together, everything should cost around $20 to $40 US.
Click
here for the next part of this tip.
----------------
Copyright 2006 Brad Walker. All rights
reserved.
|