The Paragon CS16D Dual Clamshell Glass Fusing Kiln is designed for glass artists, educators, jewelry makers, and production studios seeking greater workspace and unmatched loading flexibility. Combining a spacious 16" x 16" firing chamber with Paragon's innovative dual-opening design, the CS16D allows artists to choose between full clamshell access or independent lid operation, making it easier to load, arrange, and fire a wide variety of glass projects with confidence.
The CS Series was developed specifically for artists who want complete visibility and unrestricted access when building fused glass artwork. Unlike traditional top-loading kilns, the CS16D can open fully from the base, lifting the chamber walls and lid together to provide unobstructed access to the kiln floor. This makes it easier to arrange layered glass designs, position molds, distribute frit, and assemble intricate projects without reaching over kiln walls.
What makes the CS16D especially versatile is its dual-opening capability. The lid can be opened independently from the chamber body, allowing convenient top-loading access for slumping molds, shelf loading, project adjustments, and other studio tasks. This flexibility allows artists to adapt the kiln to different workflows without sacrificing accessibility or convenience.
The kiln's spacious 16" x 16" square firing chamber provides additional room for larger projects and higher production volumes. It is well suited for fused glass panels, decorative trays, slumped bowls, layered artwork, jewelry production, and small-batch studio firing. The larger firing surface allows artists to work on bigger pieces or process multiple projects simultaneously.
Top-mounted heating elements are installed in pinless element grooves for clean operation and even heat distribution throughout the firing chamber. By eliminating traditional element pins, the kiln maintains a cleaner interior environment while providing efficient radiant heat across the entire shelf surface. This design is especially beneficial when working with iridescent, dichroic, and decorative glass projects where cleanliness and consistency are critical.
Three counterweight-assist springs help make opening and closing smooth and controlled, whether using the independent lid or full clamshell configuration. An extended rear base provides additional support and stability while the kiln is open, and a cool-touch wooden handle offers comfortable operation during loading and unloading.
Built for long-term reliability, the CS16D features a heavy-duty steel case, durable steel base, reversible firebrick floor, and 3" firebrick insulation for efficient thermal performance. Dual mechanical relays help distribute electrical loads for longer relay life, while a stainless steel-sheathed special-limit thermocouple provides accurate temperature measurement and dependable long-term performance.
Control is provided by the SENTINEL Touch Xpress touchscreen controller with advanced Ramp-Hold programming capabilities. Easily create and store custom firing schedules, adjust heating and cooling rates, and monitor real-time kiln temperatures through the intuitive touchscreen interface. Built-in glass firing programs help simplify operation for new users, while advanced programming features provide the flexibility experienced artists demand.
Controller
The Paragon CS16D features the SENTINEL Touch Xpress Controller with advanced touchscreen Ramp-Hold programming capabilities. Easily create and store custom firing schedules, control heating and cooling rates, adjust hold times, and monitor real-time chamber temperatures with precision and repeatability.
Optional Upgrades
Furniture Kit
Expand your firing capabilities with an optional furniture kit that includes a 14" x 15" x 5/8" shelf, four square support posts, and one pound of glass separator for efficient kiln loading and project support.
Custom Color Options
Personalize your kiln with a choice of eight factory color options, including berry, black, navy, hot pink, jade, purple, and turquoise, available at no additional charge.
What's Included
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SENTINEL Touch Xpress Touchscreen Controller
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Dual-Opening Design (Independent Lid + Full Clamshell Access)
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Top-Mounted Heating Elements
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Pinless Element Grooves
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Three Counterweight-Assist Springs
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Heavy-Duty Steel Case and Base
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Reversible Firebrick Floor
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3" Firebrick Insulation
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Dual Mechanical Relays
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Special-Limit Thermocouple with Stainless Steel Sheath
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Cool-Touch Wooden Handle
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Instruction Manual
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2-Year Limited Warranty
Handcrafted in Mesquite, Texas, the Paragon CS16D reflects Paragon's longstanding commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovative kiln design, and dependable performance. Built using premium materials and proven construction methods, it is designed to provide years of reliable service for glass artists, educators, jewelry makers, and production studios seeking greater capacity, exceptional accessibility, and precise firing control.
