A Quick Guide
Current Skutt kilns are referred to with some letters, then some numbers, and then some more numbers.
For example:
KM-818
KMT-1022-3
KMT-1227-3
KM-1027
If you’ve always wondered what the letters and numbers refer to, here’s the quick breakdown. (Note: this quick guide only covers the types of kilns we typically carry in stock, and is not exhaustive of everything Skutt makes or has made.)
Most consumer kilns are the KM or KMT models. KM stands for KilnMaster, and it refers to the type of controller on the kiln. KM kilns have a simple touchpad that allows you to enter in the details of the firing schedule. The kiln heats up at the designated rate, to the designated temperature, and then shuts off automatically.
KMT models have a digital touchscreen (KilnMaster Touchscreen), which is particularly user-friendly, and it displays much more information than the older touchpads. KM and KMT model kilns function the same, but they have distinct user interfaces.
The numbers are typically verbalized like this: “eight eighteen (818)” “ten twenty-two (1022)” “twelve twenty-seven (1227).” The first verbalized number (8, 10, 12) refers to the circumference of the kiln—specifically, it’s the number of bricks the kiln has in one ring. Eight bricks make a kiln that is 17.5 inches in diameter (the size of the opening). The bigger the number, the wider the kiln. Ten bricks make an opening of just over 23 inches, and twelve bricks make an opening of over 29 inches.
More and more these days, people are opting for Skutt kilns with thicker bricks, which improves energy-efficiency. Standard models have bricks that are 2.5” thick. Upgraded bricks are 3”. So you will see standard kilns named this way: KM-1022. The upgraded models are like this: KM-1022-3. These thicker bricks reduce the internal diameter of the kiln slightly (by about an inch). The picture above is of a KM-818-3, so the diameter is only 16.5″.
The second number refers to the height, or depth, in inches. This is the available internal height, not the height of the overall kiln on its stand. 1018, 1022, & 1027 are all models with the same diameter but varying height (18”, 22”, and 27” respectively). Skutt refers to this measurement as the kiln’s depth.
Here are a few models , with the relevant information you can glean from just the name:
KM-818 (standard controller, 8 bricks around, 18” tall, 2.5” bricks)
KMT-1022-3 (touchscreen controller, 10 bricks around, 22” tall, 3” bricks)
Now you know how to parse the cryptic Skutt kiln model names! There are many more factors to consider before purchasing, including the electrical options for your space (single- or three-phase, voltage, and amperage). Now that you understand the model names, you’re ready to check out Skutt’s guide for choosing the right kiln for you.
