Soar to New Heights: the successful R&D story of our Bluebird XL Kiln

The Bluebird XL kiln has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a promising start to a sophisticated sanctuary for glass artists. After it was introduced in 2007, Paragon Industries has listened closely to our customers, refining the Bluebird XL on different versions into a precision tool that consistently delivers exceptional results.

The Bluebird XL kiln is primarily used for annealing, the process of heating metal or glass and allowing it to cool slowly to remove internal stresses and toughen the material.

“The new version has a vastly improved heating chamber, including ceramic fiber top with embedded sinusoidal elements and a full ceramic fiber chamber. This allows for faster, more precise heating and cooling of the kiln,” says Bud Ashlock, Director of Engineering at Paragon Industries.

Ashlock continues, “The Bluebird XL bead doors were also changed significantly to incorporate a much better hinge arrangement. In addition to being stronger, this hinge allows the doors to be easily changed out to other styles. We also used thicker refractory insulation and gaskets on the doors to improve heat retention.”

To ensure the kiln's durability and longevity, we’ve enhanced its construction. “The kiln chassis is now a welded sub-assembly. This new chassis is stronger and allows for a more precise build. It eliminates the need for a lot of exposed fasteners, too,” explains Ashlock.

These advancements, combined with the kiln’s core functionality, create an optimal environment for glass annealing. The result is a kiln that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of even the most discerning glass artists.

Paragon Industries, with its rich history dating as one of the first and biggest kiln and furnaces manufacturers, is the architect of this inspired masterpiece.

The Bluebird XL is more than just a kiln; it's a testament to the harmonious blend of nature’s wisdom and human ingenuity.