Using Kiln to smelt

[GrumpyFinn]

Has anybody used a ceramic kiln to melt their lead or do you save them for annealing and other stuff. I just like the idea of melting with electricity and I have two of them 2300 deg. f, so I figured I would convert the other to melt lead.

[clintsfolly]

I do not want to clean the MESS out of a kiln so i say NO Way!!!!!! you want to smelt at 650 deg or less anyway. clint

[bumpo628]

Probably be too hot to reach in there and ladle it out too.

[GrumpyFinn]

I forgot to mention, the smaller one's interior dimensions are 18"W x 12" deep the other one has shelves and pyramids to bring the pots and crucibles to different levels, the temperature is controlled from 0 deg. to 2300. So setting it at 650 is not a problem, they've been used to melt other alloys in crucibles and has worked ok.

I was just wondering if anybody uses them for lead.

[imashooter2]

Sounds like the answer was no...

[docone31]

Grumpy, I have two kilns. No way is lead going to intentionally go in there!
I use them for burn outs.
If you have nothing else, use the stove top. The simplest way is to get an hot plate for 1500watts.
You will throw away those kilns if you process lead in them.