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Partially-opened Top Hat, raku 189E electric kiln from Olympic

Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln

by Olympic Kilns
Save $462.00
$2,310.00
$1,848.00
Financing Information i

Financing through Approve is exclusively for business equipment loans and is available to all types of organizations, excluding personal loans. Minimum purchase price of $1,500.

Designed for versatility in raku, glaze, bisque, and glass firing, this electric top-hat kiln is ideal for small to mid-size ceramic and metallurgical projects. Its lifting lid offers easy access, while the deep chamber and precise controls ensure consistent results up to cone 10.

Important Details:

  • Chamber size: 17.5" W x 9" D
  • Volume: 1.3 cubic feet
  • Maximum temperature: 2350°F (Cone 10)
  • Electrical options: 208V/30A or 240V/26A
  • Required breaker: 40 amps (for both voltages)

iNot sure what product options to choose? Check out our Kiln FAQs below!

Voltage selection
Controller selection

Need a formal quote or to request a W9? Let us know!

Interested in all Reviews ever provided to Pottery Pulse, regardless of product? Click here.

Enhance Your Firing Process with the Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln

Precision Technology for Consistent Ceramic and Glass Results

Introducing the Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln, a perfect fusion of precision and functionality tailored for ceramic and glass artists. With its 17.5″ wide by 9″ deep firing chamber, the TopHat 189E is designed to handle small to medium-sized projects with ease, offering consistency and reliability for a wide range of firing styles, including ceramics and glass fusing. Reaching up to Cone 10/2350°F, this kiln is equipped to meet the most demanding artistic needs.

Exceptional Construction for Long-Lasting Performance

The TopHat 189E is built to last, with 2.5" brick construction that provides superior insulation and heat retention. The kiln’s durable welded frame and stainless steel jacket ensure it withstands the rigors of a busy studio environment, while its specialized lid element delivers consistent, even heating—perfect for glass fusing projects. This kiln is designed to offer a seamless, dependable firing experience from start to finish.

Precision Firing with the Digital KilnStar Controller

The TopHat 189E comes standard with the Digital KilnStar controller, a highly intuitive and reliable tool for managing your firings with precision. The KilnStar controller makes it easy to set and monitor firing schedules, ensuring every project achieves the desired results. With multiple programmable segments, features like delay start, preheat, and hold time adjustments, the KilnStar provides the versatility needed for both beginners and advanced users to create custom firing profiles that suit their work.

For those who want an even more advanced interface, an upgrade to the Genesis Touchscreen controller is available. The Genesis controller enhances your firing process with a full-color touchscreen display, real-time temperature tracking, and an expanded ability to store multiple firing programs. The graphical interface makes it even easier to program and monitor complex firing sequences, giving you more control over your creative process and peace of mind.

Advanced Technology for Enhanced Performance

The TopHat 189E offers cutting-edge technology like Solid State Relays (optional), which ensure precise temperature control and quick response times for even heat distribution. These relays extend the life of your kiln’s elements and reduce the need for frequent maintenance, making your firing experience more efficient and reliable.

Safety and Convenience in One Design

Prioritize safety with the option to add an Automatic Lid Shutoff feature, designed to instantly cut power to the heating elements when the kiln lid is opened. This ensures an extra layer of protection during firings. Additionally, optional caster wheels make moving the kiln around your workspace simple and convenient.

Optimize Your Firing Capacity with a Custom Furniture Kit

Maximize the use of your kiln’s interior with a custom-designed furniture kit that includes shelves, posts, kiln wash, and tools, ensuring even support and heating of your projects. This ensures each piece you fire comes out looking flawless.

Craftsmanship Meets Innovation in the TopHat 189E

The Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln is more than just a piece of equipment—it's a vital companion in your artistic journey. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a beginner looking to elevate your craft, this kiln provides the precision, control, and reliability needed to transform your creative visions into reality. Order your TopHat 189E today and step into a world of limitless artistic potential!

  • Model: TopHat 189E
  • Lid Lift Assist: Yes
  • Inside Chamber Dimensions: 17.5" W x 9" D
  • Cubic Feet: 1.3
  • Outside Dimensions with Stand or Frame: 39" W x 56" D
  • Brick Thickness: 2.5"
  • Maximum Temperature: Cone 10, 2350°F/1288°C
  • Amperage/Volts: 30 amps / 208 volts or 26 amps / 240 volts
  • Watts: 6,240
  • Breaker: 40 amp required for both 208 and 240 volt configurations
  • Plug Configuration: NEMA 6-50
  • Copper Wire Size: #8, #6 if the circuit is longer than 40 ft

The furniture kit includes:

  • 2 layers of shelving with 2 each of 15.5″ x 16.5″ octagon shelves (1 per layer)
  • 3 each: 1-inch and 6-inch small square posts
  • 1 pound bag of kiln wash
  • Raku tongs
  • Heavy-duty gloves

There is an option also available that adds 3 square feet of ceramic paper, if your work is primarily focused on firing glass.

Estimated order-to-ship lead time is approximately 12 weeks for Olympic Kilns.

We get it. You've got a lot of choices when it comes to online retailers. Here's why we think you should shop with us at Pottery Pulse.

If this specific product has already been reviewed, you will find it below all the product information tabs, and above the "You may also like..." section.

If it has not, you can still find all reviews left from Pottery Pulse customers at this Reviews page on our site. Please click that link and read what other customers are saying as you consider whether or not to provide your business to Pottery Pulse.

We are confident we sell outstanding products from outstanding manufacturers, and that we'll top the best customer experience you can find anywhere. We are devoted to our customers because we simply are out of business without them.

Simply put, you could say that makes you the center of our universe.

FAQs - Configuring Your Kiln

There are certain selections you must choose. And then there are options you can click on or ignore. The answers below should help you make the best choices for you.

 Which Kiln Voltage Should I Select?

Higher voltage means lower amperage draw and greater efficiency, which can save money long term. 240V and 208V cost the same—most home studios use 240V, while 208V is common in schools or large facilities. Amperage refers to the amount of electrical current a kiln draws—higher amps require heavier wiring and breakers.

What's The Difference Between Single-Phase and Three-Phase?

Single-phase is what almost all homes have. If your facility has three-phase, you can choose either—but three-phase is typically the better long-term option due to smoother power and improved efficiency.

Which Relay Option Do I Need?

Mechanical relays are standard and reliable. Solid-state relays (SSR) offer silent operation, faster cycling, greater precision, and longer lifespan—ideal for frequent or high-accuracy firings.

What Are The Differences Between Kiln Controllers?

The following controllers are used across kilns sold by Pottery Pulse. Not all models offer every option—available controllers are listed on each product page. Some kilns include only the standard controller, while most allow upgrades for added precision and convenience.

Olympic Kilns

  • Infinite Switch – Manual dial control for simple heat adjustments.
  • KilnStar – Digital controller with preset and user-defined programs.
  • Genesis – Advanced touchscreen interface with Wi-Fi and data logging.

Evenheat Kilns

  • Icon – Digital 3-button controller for straightforward firing.
  • RampMaster II – Manual digital controller for ceramic kilns; flexible ramp/hold programming.
  • RampMaster 3 – Updated version for glass kilns with refined interface.
  • Icon+ – Enhanced digital control with expanded profiles and precision.
  • TAP II – Smart touchscreen controller with Wi-Fi, data tracking, and remote access.

Hot Shot Kilns

  • Novus – “Set & Go” controller: set a target temperature and it does the rest (no segments).
  • Spark – Entry-level touchscreen controller with intuitive operation and limited program control.
  • TAP II – Smart touchscreen controller with Wi-Fi and real-time monitoring.

Jen-Ken Kilns

  • Orton AF3P 3-Button – Reliable and straightforward for basic firing.
  • Orton AutoFire 4000 12-Key – Expanded program capacity and fine control.
  • Orton AutoFire Slide Touchscreen – Modern, responsive touchscreen interface.
  • TAP II Touchscreen Smart Controller – Wi-Fi connectivity and real-time data tracking.

What Are Collars For?

Not all kilns can use a collar, but Olympic’s Hot Box kilns can be ordered with a collar to expand versatility. A blank collar simply adds height to the firing chamber, while a bead collar adds the same height and includes a built-in bead or annealing door for quick-access lampwork projects.

What Does The Power Interrupt Switch Do?

This safety feature automatically cuts power to the heating elements whenever the kiln lid or door is opened. It prevents accidental burns, protects elements, and resumes power only when safely closed. (Also called an automatic lid shutoff on Olympic kilns.)
Description

Enhance Your Firing Process with the Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln

Precision Technology for Consistent Ceramic and Glass Results

Introducing the Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln, a perfect fusion of precision and functionality tailored for ceramic and glass artists. With its 17.5″ wide by 9″ deep firing chamber, the TopHat 189E is designed to handle small to medium-sized projects with ease, offering consistency and reliability for a wide range of firing styles, including ceramics and glass fusing. Reaching up to Cone 10/2350°F, this kiln is equipped to meet the most demanding artistic needs.

Exceptional Construction for Long-Lasting Performance

The TopHat 189E is built to last, with 2.5" brick construction that provides superior insulation and heat retention. The kiln’s durable welded frame and stainless steel jacket ensure it withstands the rigors of a busy studio environment, while its specialized lid element delivers consistent, even heating—perfect for glass fusing projects. This kiln is designed to offer a seamless, dependable firing experience from start to finish.

Precision Firing with the Digital KilnStar Controller

The TopHat 189E comes standard with the Digital KilnStar controller, a highly intuitive and reliable tool for managing your firings with precision. The KilnStar controller makes it easy to set and monitor firing schedules, ensuring every project achieves the desired results. With multiple programmable segments, features like delay start, preheat, and hold time adjustments, the KilnStar provides the versatility needed for both beginners and advanced users to create custom firing profiles that suit their work.

For those who want an even more advanced interface, an upgrade to the Genesis Touchscreen controller is available. The Genesis controller enhances your firing process with a full-color touchscreen display, real-time temperature tracking, and an expanded ability to store multiple firing programs. The graphical interface makes it even easier to program and monitor complex firing sequences, giving you more control over your creative process and peace of mind.

Advanced Technology for Enhanced Performance

The TopHat 189E offers cutting-edge technology like Solid State Relays (optional), which ensure precise temperature control and quick response times for even heat distribution. These relays extend the life of your kiln’s elements and reduce the need for frequent maintenance, making your firing experience more efficient and reliable.

Safety and Convenience in One Design

Prioritize safety with the option to add an Automatic Lid Shutoff feature, designed to instantly cut power to the heating elements when the kiln lid is opened. This ensures an extra layer of protection during firings. Additionally, optional caster wheels make moving the kiln around your workspace simple and convenient.

Optimize Your Firing Capacity with a Custom Furniture Kit

Maximize the use of your kiln’s interior with a custom-designed furniture kit that includes shelves, posts, kiln wash, and tools, ensuring even support and heating of your projects. This ensures each piece you fire comes out looking flawless.

Craftsmanship Meets Innovation in the TopHat 189E

The Olympic Kilns TopHat 189E Electric Kiln is more than just a piece of equipment—it's a vital companion in your artistic journey. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a beginner looking to elevate your craft, this kiln provides the precision, control, and reliability needed to transform your creative visions into reality. Order your TopHat 189E today and step into a world of limitless artistic potential!

Specifications
  • Model: TopHat 189E
  • Lid Lift Assist: Yes
  • Inside Chamber Dimensions: 17.5" W x 9" D
  • Cubic Feet: 1.3
  • Outside Dimensions with Stand or Frame: 39" W x 56" D
  • Brick Thickness: 2.5"
  • Maximum Temperature: Cone 10, 2350°F/1288°C
  • Amperage/Volts: 30 amps / 208 volts or 26 amps / 240 volts
  • Watts: 6,240
  • Breaker: 40 amp required for both 208 and 240 volt configurations
  • Plug Configuration: NEMA 6-50
  • Copper Wire Size: #8, #6 if the circuit is longer than 40 ft

The furniture kit includes:

  • 2 layers of shelving with 2 each of 15.5″ x 16.5″ octagon shelves (1 per layer)
  • 3 each: 1-inch and 6-inch small square posts
  • 1 pound bag of kiln wash
  • Raku tongs
  • Heavy-duty gloves

There is an option also available that adds 3 square feet of ceramic paper, if your work is primarily focused on firing glass.

Current lead times

Estimated order-to-ship lead time is approximately 12 weeks for Olympic Kilns.

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choices when it comes to online retailers. Here's why we think you should shop with us at Pottery Pulse.

Customer Reviews

If this specific product has already been reviewed, you will find it below all the product information tabs, and above the "You may also like..." section.

If it has not, you can still find all reviews left from Pottery Pulse customers at this Reviews page on our site. Please click that link and read what other customers are saying as you consider whether or not to provide your business to Pottery Pulse.

We are confident we sell outstanding products from outstanding manufacturers, and that we'll top the best customer experience you can find anywhere. We are devoted to our customers because we simply are out of business without them.

Simply put, you could say that makes you the center of our universe.