Paragon CT81722 Janus Ceramic and Glass Kiln

The Paragon CT81722 Janus combines deep-chamber capacity, dual-mode firing, and reliable cone-10 performance in a versatile kiln built for artists working in both ceramics and glass. With a 16.5″ interior diameter and 22.25″ depth (2.95 cu ft), it offers the ideal balance of compact footprint and vertical capacity—perfect for taller sculptural work, multi-shelf ceramic loads, or larger single-shelf glass projects. Built on Paragon’s proven Ceramic Top platform, this model brings durability, consistency, and flexibility into one efficient studio kiln.

This kiln features 3″ firebrick insulation throughout, solid-state relays (SSR) for quiet and dependable operation, and a vent-ready, pre-drilled base with an AOP (Auxiliary Outlet Plug) for easy integration with an optional Orton VentMaster system. Its octagonal chamber promotes even heat distribution, while dropped, recessed element grooves eliminate the need for pins and extend element life. A top row of grooveless blank bricks helps reduce interior wear, and the reversible firebrick floor extends the kiln’s working life. The drop-down hinged switch box allows convenient access for maintenance, while the lock-in lid support and two-stage Prop-R-Vent system improve safety and usability during loading and cooling.

The Janus dual-mode system uses dedicated top and sidewall elements, controlled by a simple toggle switch that allows you to switch between glass and pottery firing modes. Glass mode activates the top and mid-side elements for controlled radiant heat—ideal for fusing, slumping, and sagging—while pottery mode uses sidewall elements only to ensure even heat distribution for bisque and glaze firings up to cone 10. This flexibility makes the CT81722 Janus an excellent choice for multi-disciplinary studios or artists looking to expand into glass without adding another kiln.

Controller

The CT81722 Janus includes the Sentinel SmartTouch Controller, featuring a responsive color touchscreen, cone-fire and ramp-hold programming, user-friendly prompts for both ceramic and glass cycles, firing logs, diagnostics, and scheduling tools for consistent, repeatable results.

Optional Add-Ons

Furniture Kit: Includes six C-23H shelves (20″ round × ¾″), a full set of 1½″ square posts in multiple heights, and kiln wash—everything needed to begin firing immediately.

VentMaster Kiln Vent: This optional system improves heat distribution, enhances glaze consistency, and safely removes fumes. It connects directly to the kiln’s AOP and utilizes the pre-drilled vent port for quick installation.

Kiln Stand Options: Choose between the 6″ Standard Stand with mar-proof feet or the 12″ Deluxe Rolling Stand, recommended when pairing with a VentMaster system.

What’s Included

Sentinel SmartTouch Controller
Solid State Relays (SSR)
3″ Firebrick Insulation
Janus Dual-Mode Firing System
Vent-Ready Base with AOP
Dropped, Recessed Element Grooves (No Pins Required)
Top Row of Grooveless Blank Bricks
Wide Tapered Peepholes
Lock-In Lid Support with Positive Catch
Two-Stage Prop-R-Vent System
Reversible Firebrick Floor
Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Case
Instruction Manual
2-Year Limited Warranty

Hand-built in Mesquite, Texas, the Paragon CT81722 Janus is a flexible studio workhorse—offering the depth, control, and dual-media capability needed by ceramic artists, glassworkers, educators, and studios seeking high performance in a single, space-efficient kiln.

These specs apply to the 240V, single-phase configuration. Also available in 3-phase and 208V options.

For 240V 3-phase or 208V (single or 3-phase), contact us for full electrical details.

• Model: CT81722 Janus, 8-sided
  
• Inside Chamber Dimensions: 16.5" W x 22.25" H
• Cubic Feet: 2.95
• Overall Dimensions (Footprint & Height): 25.5” W x 28.5" D x 28" H
• Maximum Temperature: 2350°F (Cone 10) / 1287°C
• Est. ship weight: 265 pounds
  
• Volts: 240 (single phase) - call or email for electrical details on other configurations
• Amperage: 30A
  
• Watts: 7,200
  
• Plug configuration: NEMA 6-50
• Breaker: 40A
  

Optional furniture kit contents:

• (3) 15” round shelves
• (1) 15" round half-shelf
• (4) each of 1/2”, 1", 2", 3”, 4”, 5" and 6” tall 1”-square posts
• (1) 1# bag of kiln wash

Disclaimer: The specifications above assume that the kiln will be plugged into a dedicated circuit. Local electric codes supersede these recommendations.

Please contact us to reach out to the manufacturer for an estimated lead time.

There is currently a firebrick supply constraint affecting several kiln manufacturers, including this model. Because of that, lead times have been extended and can fluctuate.

Rather than guess, we can confirm the current production timeline with the factory before you place your order so you know exactly what to expect.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.)