There is no doubt that kiln-direct favors the moveable between-deck design in most cases. However there are situations where either of the more traditional designs may prove to be more economical or practical.
When to use a certain design:
Fixed between deck with edge baffles:
This is the most traditional design and probably the most useful if you have a need for regualr inspection and maintenance of the kiln equipment in the top of the kiln. This tends to be more common on high temperature softwood kilns.
Fixed dual baffle between-deck:
This is in our opinion a better version than the fixed between-deck and works well in hardwood kilns. It is technically better and should provide a little better air flow when compared to the fixed between-deck. Its major drawback is the same as the moveable between-deck, which requires the baffles to be lowered completely before you can inspect or maintain the equipment in the top of the kiln.
Moveable between-deck:
This is, in our opinion, the best technical solution for most kiln installations (especially for packaged kilns). We consider this type to have the following advantages:
Provides the best possible air flow.
Its flexibility makes it more adaptable for loads with various heights.
Its flexibility allows for some forklift abuse without damaging it (but not fool proof).
If damaged, it is normally minor and can be repaired easily and inexpensively.
Disadvantages: Its major disadvantage is the fact that it has to be lowered before you can inspect or maintain the equipment in the top of the kiln.