Thanks, Susan. Yeah, that's most definitely the case for so many of us. The only reason I learned to check was because I was using a second-hand china painting kiln for my glass, which didn't have a digital controller.
So with the help of a friend, I was able to use the analogue pyrometer to ascertain the right schedules and hold at the right temp for garaging, batch and soaks, and then test for strain.
It was a good grounding which has served me very well, and I'm so glad I knew already what to look for because I'd continue to test every now and then just to make sure.
Of course, in times like this, that knowledge isn't always a lot of fun.
I have heard from the supplier here in Australia and they're being fantastic. Some good news, anyway
