Hot Shot Clam Shell Glass Kiln HS-18G
Save $1,357.00
Original Price
$5,915.00
Current Price
$4,558.00
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In Stock: In stock and ready to ship. Most orders are delivered within 5–7 business days.
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Hot Shot · Glass Kiln · Front-Loading Clamshell
Hot Shot HS-18G Clamshell Glass Kiln
The Hot Shot HS-18G is a front-loading clamshell glass kiln built for fusing, slumping, and annealing with an 18″ × 18″ shelf footprint and 10″ of interior height. Solid state relay comes standard for precise temperature control throughout long glass firing cycles. The clamshell design allows easy loading from the front and full top access for large or awkward pieces.
Max temperature1700°F
Interior dimensions18″ L × 18″ W × 10″ H
Power requirement240V / 32A / 40A breaker
DesignFront-loading clamshell
What’s included
Digital controller
Programmable digital temperature controller with ramp/hold capability for custom glass firing schedules
Solid state relay (SSR)
Included as standard equipment for infinite-switch power control and smooth temperature ramps critical for glass work
Clamshell opening mechanism
Front-hinged lid opens upward for full top access; load work from the front without lifting heavy pieces overhead
High-temperature brick
Insulating firebrick rated for continuous use at 1700°F
Heating elements
Coil elements in floor and lid for even heat distribution across the glass shelf
Steel jacket
Durable exterior housing protects insulation and structural components
Technical specifications
ModelHS-18G
Interior dimensions18″ L × 18″ W × 10″ H
Capacity1.9 cubic feet
Maximum temperature1700°F
Voltage240V single phase
Amperage32 amps
Wattage7,680 watts
Breaker required40 amp (125% of amperage)
Plug configurationNEMA 6-50 or hardwire
Wire gauge8 AWG copper (3-wire plus ground)
Loading styleFront-loading clamshell (top-hinged lid)
Shipping weightApproximately 250 lbs
Optional accessories
Kiln shelf and posts
18″ × 18″ mullite or ceramic fiber shelf with kiln posts; additional shelves allow stacking multiple layers for production work
Fiber paper
High-temperature ceramic fiber paper prevents glass adhesion to kiln shelves during fusing and slumping
Kiln wash
Shelf coating that protects kiln shelves from molten glass; reapply between firings as needed
Slumping molds
Stainless steel or ceramic molds in various shapes for forming bowls, plates, and sculptural forms
Fusing supplies kit
Includes separator, dam material, and tools for professional glass fusing results
Replacement thermocouple
Type K thermocouple; keep a spare on hand to avoid downtime if the original fails
Element set
Full replacement element set for HS-18G; elements typically last 100–200 firings depending on use
Power interrupt system
Automatically shuts off kiln power if temperature exceeds programmed setpoint; added safety for unattended firings
Controller upgrade
Genesis Touchscreen — Bartlett InstrumentsRecommended
The Genesis touchscreen controller replaces the standard digital controller with a full-color display and intuitive interface designed for complex glass firing schedules. Store unlimited custom programs with up to 32 segments per firing for annealing, fusing, and slumping cycles that require precise ramp rates and extended hold times.
- Full-color 4.3″ touchscreen with graphical firing progress display
- Unlimited program storage with 32 segments per program for multi-stage glass schedules
- Real-time firing graphs show temperature curve as the kiln fires
- Delay start function allows you to program firings to begin at a specific time
- Alarm and notification system alerts you when firing completes or if faults occur
- USB port for firmware updates and data logging of firing history
Common questions
What types of glass work can I do in the HS-18G?
The HS-18G fires to 1700°F, making it suitable for full fusing (1450–1500°F), tack fusing (1350–1425°F), slumping (1200–1350°F), and annealing. The 18″ × 18″ shelf accommodates large platters, bowls, decorative panels, and jewelry components. The 10″ interior height provides clearance for most slumping molds and stacked fusing projects. This kiln is not intended for float glass or lampworking; it's designed for kiln-formed glass techniques.
What are the advantages of the clamshell design over top-loading kilns?
The front-hinged clamshell lid opens toward you, allowing you to load glass from a work table at waist height without lifting pieces overhead. This reduces the risk of dropping expensive glass work and makes it easier to position elements precisely on the shelf. The fully-opening top provides complete access for placing large sheets, removing molds, or inspecting work mid-fire. Clamshell kilns are especially popular with artists working with full sheets of glass or heavy slumping molds.
Do I need an electrician to install this kiln?
Yes. The HS-18G requires a dedicated 240V, 40-amp circuit with 8 AWG copper wire. This is not a standard household circuit. A licensed electrician must install a new circuit from your breaker panel to the kiln location, terminating in either a NEMA 6-50 receptacle or a hardwired connection. Do not attempt to run this kiln on an existing circuit or use an undersized wire gauge. Improper wiring creates a serious fire hazard and voids your warranty.
What's the difference between the HS-18G and other glass kilns in this size range?
The HS-18G includes a solid state relay as standard equipment, which many competitors charge extra for or omit entirely. SSR provides infinite power switching for smooth temperature control during critical annealing phases where precise cooling rates prevent stress fractures. The clamshell design is also less common than top-loaders in this size, offering easier loading access. Hot Shot kilns are built for technical users who prioritize control accuracy over price.
Is this kiln covered by warranty if I buy from Peach State Pottery?
Yes. Peach State Pottery is an authorized Hot Shot dealer, so your kiln is covered by the manufacturer's one-year limited warranty. You must register your kiln with Hot Shot within 30 days of delivery to activate coverage. Kilns purchased from unauthorized sellers or used kilns are not covered. Keep your proof of purchase and register promptly to protect your investment.
Not sure if the HS-18G is the right kiln for your studio?
Our team can help you compare models, review electrical requirements, and confirm this kiln fits your glass work.
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