The Xpress-E-12A comes with the Sentry Xpress digital controller mounted in the kiln base (instead of a side switch box) to save table space. The kiln includes a door safety switch that turns off the element when the door is opened. The controller automatically resumes firing when you close the door.

The Sentry Xpress 3-key controller is packed with features. It includes two modes: Single Speed and 8-segment Ramp-Hold.

Features of the Sentry Xpress 3-key Controller on the Xpress-E-12A

• Design programs with up to 8 segments (steps) in Ramp-Hold mode.
• Fire to a single temperature at a single speed in the simplified Single Speed mode.
• Ramp-Hold mode can store 4 programs.
• Skip a segment in Ramp-Hold during firing without stopping the kiln to reprogram.
• Change the target temperature in Ramp-Hold during firing without stopping the kiln to reprogram.
• Hold (soak) the temperature in both Single Speed and Ramp-Hold. Experiment with Hold to improve color saturation of china paints.
• Add Hold Time during firing without stopping the kiln to reprogram.
• Control both heating and cooling in Ramp-Hold.
• Program Review lets you check the program you are about to fire.
• Program the Temperature Alarm to sound when the kiln reaches a specific temperature. Use this to remind yourself to check on the kiln.
• Temperature displays throughout firing and cooling in your choice of °F or °C.
• Thermocouple Offset adjusts the thermocouple readout.
• Set the Delay to turn on the kiln later to suit your schedule.
• Error Messages report mechanical problems such as a disconnected thermocouple, stuck relay or broken element.
• 12 Month Warranty
• LED Lights show whether you are in program, review, or firing mode.

The Xpress-E-12A heating element, exposed in dropped, recessed insulating firebrick grooves, is easy to replace if ever necessary. The 2 1/2” thick firebricks store plenty of heat for slow cooling through the glass annealing range. For small glass pieces such as jewelry, you can anneal without having to turn the element back on during cooling. (If extra heat is necessary to anneal large pieces, that is easy. Just program a slow cooling segment in Ramp-Hold mode.) The firebricks store heat for quick temperature recovery after removing a copper enameling piece.

The thermocouple is protected with a high-nickel stainless steel sheath for long life. A switch on the front panel turns off power to the controller when the kiln is not in use.

Unlatch and open the door with one hand; the latch operates so smoothly that delicate copper enameling or silver clay pieces remain undisturbed while opening or closing the door. The door opens smoothly on a heavy-duty 1/2” hinge shaft. No extra stand is needed; the built-in base stays cool even during extended hold times.

The interior is large enough to fire a 10” bronze clay container. A vent hole in the top, complete with tapered vent plug, is designed for lost wax casting. You can also vent combustible cork clay and other fillers used with silver clay.

Specifications