Olympic TopHat 189E: Unleash Dual-Media Creativity
Introducing the Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Dual Media Kiln, a versatile powerhouse designed to elevate your ceramic and glass art. With its compact 17.5" wide by 9" deep interior, this small-sized kiln is perfect for home studios, local studios, and schools looking for a multi-purpose firing solution.
Don't let its size fool you - the TopHat 189E packs a punch, firing up to Cone 10 (2350°F) for all your ceramic needs. What sets this kiln apart is its dual-media capability, featuring a lid element specifically designed for glass fusing. This unique feature allows you to explore both pottery and glass art with a single, space-efficient kiln.
User-friendly operation is at the forefront with the included Bartlett 3 Key electronic controller. Easily program your desired cone fire or ramp/hold settings for precise control over your firings. For even more advanced features, consider upgrading to the Genesis touchscreen controller or the 12-key digital KilnStar controller. These options offer additional programmability, including delay start, preheat, and cone offset functions, giving you the tools to fine-tune your firing process for both ceramics and glass.
Controller Selection for the Olympic TopHat 189E Pottery & Glass Kiln
Olympic offers a range of digital controllers to suit various firing needs. Choose between advanced touch screen interfaces, wall-mounted units, or numerical keypads for precise control.
Genesis by Bartlett Instruments
- Touch screen interface with user-friendly design
- Stores up to 12 programs with 32 segments each
- Allows easy customization of temperatures and segments
- Ideal for those seeking advanced features with simplicity
KilnStar 12-Key (Standard)
- Customize your firing process with 6 user-defined programs of 8 steps each
- Achieve precise results through 16-segment programming and cone adjustments
- Save time and energy with convenient features like delay start and preheat
- Enhance your firing flexibility with °F/°C operation, alarms, and skip-step option
V6-CF by Bartlett Instruments
- Numerical keypad with multiple buttons for precise input
- Creates up to 4 custom programs (8 segments) and 2 programs (16 segments)
- Features Cone Fire mode and on-the-fly adjustments
- Particularly suited for ceramic applications and drying ware
RTC-1000
- Allows 6 custom programs with 8 segments, or up to 16 for complex firings
- Supports on-the-fly schedule adjustments
- Best suited for glass firings with advanced features
- A strong alternative to the V6-CF
All controllers provide flexibility and precise control over firing processes, ensuring consistent results for your specific needs.
Optional Add-Ons for Olympic TopHat 189E
Solid State Relay: Efficiently controls kiln elements, handling high power loads with precision. Offers faster response times and longer lifespan compared to mechanical relays, ensuring accurate temperature control and energy savings.
Orton Vent Master: Removes harmful toxins and improves airflow through downdraft venting, promoting safety and even heating. Extends kiln life and reduces maintenance costs by minimizing buildup of corrosive vapors.
Rolling Stand with Caster Wheels: Simplifies kiln movement for storage and workspace optimization. Particularly useful when using a vent system, allowing easy access for maintenance and cleaning.
Power Interrupt Switch: Automatically cuts power to heating elements when the kiln lid is open, preventing accidents. Protects both the operator and the kiln, enhancing overall safety during use.
Shelf/Furniture Kit: Maximizes kiln firing space with a comprehensive set of shelves and posts. Purchasing with the initial kiln order saves costs and provides a complete setup, though shelves may have minor imperfections.
Dual Media Lid Element: (INCLUDED) Expands kiln versatility by allowing both ceramic and glass fusing applications in a single unit. Enables seamless transitions between different firing processes, maximizing studio space efficiency.
Multi-Zone Thermocouples: Enable precise temperature regulation across different zones, ensuring uniform heating even in densely loaded kilns or when firing sculptures. By monitoring and adjusting temperatures in multiple zones, the kiln maintains consistent heat distribution, resulting in evenly fired ceramics and improved firing outcomes.
Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Kiln Specs
MODEL |
TOPHAT 189E |
WIRING SPECIFICATIONS |
1 PHASE |
Equipped with Firing Chamber Lift Assist |
Yes |
Volts |
208 |
240 |
Inside Chamber Dimensions w x d x h (inches) |
17.5 x 9 |
Amps |
30 |
26 |
Cubic Feet |
1.3 |
Watts |
6,240 |
Outside Dimensions with Stand or Frame w x d x h (inches) |
39 x 56 |
Breaker Required |
40 Amp |
40 Amp |
Brick Thickness |
2.5” |
Plug Configuration |
NEMA 6-50 |
Maximum Temperature |
Cone 10-2350°F/1288°C |
Copper Wire Size |
#8, #6 if the circuit is longer than 40 ft |
Est Ship Wt. |
190 lbs. |
Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Kiln Manual
Kiln Manual