Tecnargilla Preview - Coeltunnel presents the new shuttle kiln

Exploiting its experience as a manufacturer of a wide range of kilns for the ceramic industry, Coeltunnel has developed a new shuttle kiln suitable for firing fine fireclay console washbasins and shower trays as well as vitreous china pieces. The kiln can also be used for re-firing repaired pieces.

The kiln’s most distinctive characteristic is its extremely compact structure with the fume channels incorporated in the foundations. The Coeltunnel shuttle kiln does not have dampers or air inlets above the products being fired, so there is no risk of dust or other material falling onto them and soiling them during firing. The technical design features allow for high productivity. The refractory lining is extremely light as it consists of ceramic fibres covered by light refractory material, so the mass needing to be heated is minimal. This assures low energy consumption while fully complying with worker health and safety standards.

Right from the start the kiln is equipped with a system for heat recovery during the cooling stage. Electrical energy consumption is very low because it is used only for the fans for dilution air, which in the final stage becomes cooling air. The Coeltunnel patented burners introduce completely exhausted fumes into the kiln without flame tongues or uncombusted gases, allowing for a perfectly controlled internal atmosphere during the entire firing cycle. The computerised firing control system is able to store different firing curves and performs all movements automatically. No operators are required during firing. One kiln was recently purchased by Ceramica Olympia of Corchiano (province of Viterbo, Italy), a manufacturer of fireclay and vitreous china articles, and another by the Portuguese company Desani.