Building a kiln, step 6

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Building a kiln, step 6

Sixth step in building a lumber kiln.

The electrical installation is one of those items which has to comply with different rules, codes, standards, and regulations implemented all over the world. The greatest changes in standards arise when installing the high voltage cabinet. We will actually suggest you consider having your local electrician build the high voltage cabinet based on our wiring diagram using components from either local vendors or us. We can provide high voltage control building packages which include the steel enclosure and all the electrical components needed for making the cabinet.

The wiring process can be divided into the following groupings:

Pulling the wire from the electrical cabinet to the equipment:

The type of material needed will depend on your local standards, electrical codes, and regulations. There are two general types of wiring:

Tray cable in wire ladders and wire ways. A tray cable is a cable with several (four, in our case, 3-phase+ground) individually insulated wires molded into a common plastic jacket. This is normally the most economical solution, but some local electrical codes and inspectors do not like this method. In addition, on the wood panel design, this tray cable can be placed in the walls saving time on installation and materials while being well protected inside the walls.
Conduits and single wires. This is a more traditional solution found in the Americas. The key to a quality installation is the use of all aluminum conduit and fittings. Equally important is the need for a drain in the main conduit line before entering the electrical cabinets. It is nearly impossible to avoid getting moisture (=condensate later) into the conduits which will have a habit of working its way back to the electrical controls with unfortunate problems to follow.

Connecting the kiln equipment and controls together:

These connections are common and easy to understand on most kiln equipment. Detailed connection instructions should be provided by the kiln equipment supplier. Normally, you will also check the motor rotation and change them if necessary. The high voltage control cabinet should have terminal connections for each piece of equipment with clear markings.

Connecting the high voltage cabinet to the kiln controller:

This in normally done using a large conduit for many wires or several multi-conductor cables. The latter is more common in Europe. The wires are generally smaller than the rest of the wires and normally 0,25 to 0,5 (18 gauge) will surfice with the exception of the power supply wires which must be 1,5 (12 gauge). The exact wiring connections will normally be included into the wiring package from the manufacturer.

Installing and connecting the sensors in the kiln:

This is normally done using a standard catagory 5 data cable preferable with shield or similar multi conductor cable. The exact wiring connections will normally be included into the installation instructions from the kiln controller manufacturer.

This step of the kiln installation process is normally performed by the local electrician. In some cases, your on-site maintenance crew can perform this task. However, you should be certain that they have the knowledge and experience to perform the job per local standard and building codes. As always, we stand ready to assist your electrician with know-how and advice both before and during the electrical installation process.

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