What happens when the brand that built one of America’s very first electric kilns partners with the company that pioneered the world’s first commercial touchscreen kiln controller?
Customers get the best of both worlds – right out the box!
Paragon Kilns is now offering TAP II and TAP II Pro as default kiln controller options on their Clamshell Series Kilns. Over the coming months, they’ll be expanding this integration to additional Paragon kiln series.
That means you don’t have to rely on aftermarket conversion kits to enjoy the convenience and precision of TAP on one of the industry’s most reputable brands. Better yet, there’s no fee to upgrade to TAP! It’s the same price as the other controllers in Paragon’s Sentinel Controller lineup.
Just select the Sentinel TapXpress for single zone control with TAP II or the Sentinel SmartTAP for the multi-zone precision of TAP II Pro – and Paragon will ship your brand-new kiln from their 72,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Mesquite, Texas where they build all their kilns.
We’re excited to share the story behind this partnership, as well as showcase some of Paragon’s kiln models that now include TAP!
Why We’re Excited to Partner with Paragon Kilns
Since throwing our hat in the kiln controller manufacturing ring in 2015, we’ve always looked at Paragon as one of the leaders in the kiln space. Their reputation in the industry spans over 77 years, and their name is synonymous with quality, reliability, innovation, and going above-and-beyond for their customers.
These are qualities we’ve always aspired to embody – and these shared values are part of what makes this collaboration so exciting. To quote Paragon Kiln’s announcement on their site:
“Paragon’s legacy has always been built on trust, performance, and continuous improvement. Integrating TAP technology marks another milestone in our mission to empower makers – whether they’re artisans, craftsmen, studios or industries – with the most reliable tools in the industry.”
Read more about the partnership between SDS Industries and Paragon Kilns at Company Glance.
A Partnership in the Works Since 2015
Behind the scenes, we’ve been collaborating with Paragon since 2015 to help make this vision a reality. Fresh off our Kickstarter campaign, Paragon was one of the first kiln manufacturers who recognized the value in our platform – even when our controllers frankly had some wrinkles we still needed to iron out.
Their feedback over the years helped shape the TAP Ecosystem into what it is today.
However, for a major kiln manufacturer like Paragon – with over 200 distribution partners in 17 countries – the decision to introduce a new kiln controller into their product lineup isn’t one you can take lightly. And it’s not something that can happen overnight.
Now, the time is right! Better yet, Paragon’s customers can enjoy all of the improvements, refinements, and innovations we’ve made to our kiln controllers and the TAP Kiln Control Mobile app over the last 10 years.
Exploring Paragon’s Clamshell Series Kilns
If you’re in the market for a new kiln, you’re probably eager to learn more about the Paragon Kiln models that feature TAP! For rollout, TAP is available on Paragon’s Clamshell Series Kilns before we gradually expand TAP integration to additional models.
Paragon Clamshells (also known as the PARAGON CS Series) are designed to provide “full control and maximum access” for staging and firing your work. Designed with glass artists in mind, PARAGON CS Series kilns provide “full access to [your] kiln shelf for assembling delicate designs, layering glass, or arranging intricate frit patterns.”
Paragon offers two different lid configurations in a variety of chamber sizes:
- S models (Single Opening): Traditional clamshell design with walls and lid lifting in tandem.
- D models (Dual Opening): Full clamshell access, as well as a separate, hinged lid for top-loading convenience.
Every Paragon Clamshell kiln is built with pride in the U.S.A – handcrafted by a skilled, dedicated team for lasting performance, precision, and peace of mind. Below are overviews of the different models that include TAP:
CS14S TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln
Need a small kiln that’s easy to work with? The CS14S TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln is durable, reliable, and compact, while still giving you full access to your chamber. Plus, now it’s powered by the industry’s most advanced kiln controller!
- 14”x14”x6.5” chamber that’s the perfect size for small to medium projects.
- Compatible with standard household outlets (120V / 20 amps).
- Standard solid-state relay (SSR) with safety backup and special-limit thermocouple for maximum safety, precision, and reliability.
- Durable, energy efficient construction with 3” firebrick walls, recessed top-mounted heating elements, heavy steal base with reversible firebrick floor, and a cool-to-touch wooden handle.
- Powered by the Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II] for intuitive touch screen controls, unlimited firing schedules, preventative maintenance alerts, and fully remote kiln monitoring control.
CS14D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln
Looking for a compact kiln that’s perfect for fusing glass, slumping, or other techniques? The CS14D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln delivers all that and more – plus quick-switch access for maximum convenience!
- Enhanced chamber accessibility with quick-switch access, while retaining compact footprint.
- Works out-the-box with standard household outlets (120V / 20 amps).
- Dual mechanical relays to enhance reliability and prolong relay life.
- Sturdy steel base that eliminates the need for an external stand, with mar-proof rubber feet to protect your surfaces from scratching.
- More precision, reliability, and peace of mind with the Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II], which provides artists a revolutionary, next generation kiln firing experience.
CS16S TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln
Need a little more work room? The CS16S TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln gives you 20% more chamber space, plus an intuitive, precise kiln firing experience that you can manage remotely from your smartphone or tablet!
- 16″x 16″x 6.5″ interior chamber that provides 20% more space than the CS14S – with no need to install a specialized outlet!
- Runs at 120V / 20 amps for use with standard household outlets.
- Standard solid-state relay (SSR) for a quiet, precise, and safe kiln firing experience.
- Fast heating times, unprecedented reliability for everyday firing, and pinless element grooves to help keep your firing chamber clean.
- Unlimited firing schedules, logical menus, vibrant touchscreen controls, and remote kiln control with the Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II].
CS16D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln
Are you looking for a kiln that’s easy to use, easy to access, and that can stand up to daily firing? The CS16D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln by Paragon might just be the perfect option for you!
- 16″x16″ square firing chamber with dual-lid construction for unparalleled visibility and chamber access.
- Plug-and-play with standard household outlets (120V / 20 amps).
- Built for efficient, long-lasting performance with dual mechanical relays, reversible firebrick floors, a special-limit thermocouples, heavy-duty metal construction, and 3” firebrick insulation.
- Multitask more efficiently and always know the status of your kiln with push notifications, real-time alerts, and advanced diagnostics delivered to your smartphone or tablet.
- Enjoy the industry’s most advanced, precise, and easy-to-use kiln controller with the Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II].
CS19S TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln
Looking for a large kiln that still runs on a standard power outlet? Paragon’s CS19S TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln combines storied performance and reliability with cutting-edge control to provide the perfect kiln for daily, professional use.
- Generous 19”x 19”x6.5” inch chamber to accommodate “larger fused panels, multi-layered compositions, or multiple smaller pieces in one firing.”
- Works with standard household power outlets (120V / 20 amps).
- Durable construction, thick firebrick insulation, reversible chamber floors, and dual mechanical relays keep your kiln operating at peak performance.
- Enjoy maximum accessibility with a smooth, spring-assisted lid and an intuitive kiln controller with large displays and full-text touchscreen controls.
- Step into the future of kiln control with the Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II].
CS19D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln
Looking for a reliable, accessible kiln you won’t outgrow? Effortlessly fire large projects, multi-layer assemblies, and multiple pieces with the CS19D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln.
- Large 19”x 19”x 6.5” inch firing chamber to take on projects of any size.
- Runs at 120V / 20 amps for compatibility with standard household outlets.
- Rugged build and hand-crafted assembly for long-lasting precision.
- Dual-lid chamber access, reversible kiln floors, and fully embedded kiln elements to make chamber access and maintenance a breeze.
- Future-proof your kiln firing experience with the Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II], a cutting-edge touchscreen controller back by continuous updates and software refinement.
CS26 TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln
Looking for an extra large kiln – with excellent heat distribution – for firing large glass panels, installations, or wall art? Check out the CS26 TAP Controller Clamshell Kiln! Not only is it the largest Paragon kiln in the clamshell series, but it also has some premium features that set it apart from other kilns in the lineup.
- Massive 26”x 26”x13” firing chamber with air piston-assisted clamshell lid – big enough to take on any project without sacrificing accessibility.
- Operates at 240V for more power and faster heating.
- Quartz-tube-enclosed top elements and three additional enclosed sidewall elements for even heat distribution, improved kiln safety, and easier chamber cleaning.
- Durable steel lid cover (with built-in ventilation), a ceramic rope gasket for a soft lid seal, and a full-width cool-touch lid enhance durability and user-friendliness.
- Manage even the most complex projects with ease with Sentinel TapXpress Controller [TAP II], the industry’s most advanced single zone kiln controller.
Power Your Projects with TAP
We’re beyond excited to kick off our official partnership with Paragon Kilns. But moreover, we’re excited that more artists will be able to experience the convenience, precision, and peace of mind of the TAP Ecosystem.
We’ve spent over a decade perfecting our platform and introducing the features that artists actually need to operate their kiln at its true potential. From intuitive touchscreen controls to unlimited firing schedules and true end-to-end remote control, we’re constantly refining our controllers, innovating, and introducing new features (like TAP II Pro’s exclusive Cone Fire Mode!).
No matter your budget, your firing needs, or the types of projects you work on, the TAP Ecosystem has an option that’s right for you. We invite you to explore our selection of digital controllers, conversion kits, and standalone kiln controllers.
If you’re looking to buy a kiln or oven where TAP comes included, check out one of our partners below:
- Evenheat
- Hot Shot Oven & Kiln
- Paragon Kilns
- Mobile Glassblowing Studios, LLC
- Jen-Ken Kilns
- Kiln Frog
- Sheffield Pottery
- Delphi Glass
TAP x Paragon Kilns FAQ
When can I purchase a Paragon kiln that’s powered by a TAP Kiln Controller?
Today, if you want! Paragon’s TAP Clamshell Series are available for sale now at paragonkilns.com. If you act fast, you might even be able to get 20% off MSRP (as of the publication of this blog).
However, that’s just the start! We’ll be working with Paragon Kilns to help integrate TAP Kiln Controllers throughout their kiln lineup.
In the meantime, the TAP Clamshell Series Kilns are an amazing option for artists – like glass artists and jewelry artists – who need to be able to access, stage, or adjust their work inside of their kiln. These kilns are built for maximum reliability and convenience and come in a variety of chamber sizes, depending on your needs.
All of them except the CS19D TAP Controller Dual Clamshell Kiln run on 120 volts and 20 amps, so you can use them with your regular household outlets. Powered by the TAP II Kiln Controller, these kilns merge exceptional mechanical designs with intuitive, streamlined single zone kiln control.
You can purchase your Paragon CS Kiln at paragonkilns.com.
What if I already have a Paragon kiln that uses a controller from another manufacturer?
If you already have a Paragon kiln that has a kiln controller from another manufacturer, the good news is that you don’t have to replace your kiln to upgrade its controller!
TAP Conversion Kits are designed to facilitate a fast, 1:1 replacement of your existing automatic controller. Just select the type of controller (touchscreen, 3-key, or 12-key) you need to upgrade. Then, choose the make and model of your existing controller, as well as which TAP Controller model is right for your needs.
The conversion kit will include a matching faceplate, wiring harness, and everything you need (minus a Phillips head screwdriver) to quickly swap out your old controller in minutes – usually with zero modification to your kiln.
What sets TAP apart from other types of kiln controllers?
To quote Paragon: “TAP II controller has set the standard for precision, simplicity, and connectivity in kiln control.”
We achieved this by focusing on two core design principles: Simplicity and Precision. More importantly, we focused on how artists use their kilns and what features would make their lives easier. We basically looked at everything that frustrated us about using the complicated, key-based controller on our studio kilns and made a wish list of everything we’d want in our dream kiln controller.
The result was TAP! Below are a few benefits of TAP Kiln Controllers that set them apart from controllers from other manufacturers:
- Smooth, responsive controls: As soon as you boot up TAP, you’ll immediately see what sets it apart from other controllers. Snappy touchscreen controls and an attractive, graphical interface were a core part of our design to make our controllers more accessible, user friendly, and up to date with the highest standards of the technology we use in day-to-day life.
- Menu navigation that just makes sense: One of our biggest frustrations with key-based controllers was how many times you had to press a button (and read the manual) to get the controller to do what you want it to do. Then, you mostly had to hope you programmed it correctly. With TAP, we focused on simplifying that process. Everything is where you expect it to be, with full-text displays, and the ability to view (and edit) complete schedules.
- Unlimited firing schedules: Another huge frustration was that other controllers limit the number of schedules you can have saved at any one time (our closest competitor still caps you at 30!). That means that you have to pick and choose which firing schedules you have saved to your controller. Then, for your other schedules, you have to constantly dig through your kiln notebooks and recreate them every time you need them. TAP solves this by letting you save unlimited custom schedules with unlimited steps. Every schedule you use is always right at your fingertips – and you can name them yourself!
- Fully remote monitoring and kiln control: Another major innovation we made was integrating TAP Kiln Control Mobile with all of our controllers so artists can monitor their firings and receive real time push notification alerts and alarms to their smartphone or tablet. Remote monitoring capabilities are completely free. Even better, you can upgrade to a paid subscription for Remote Start, remote schedule creation and adjustment, and true end-to-end remote control. That means, you never have to wait by your kiln for it to heat up or drop what you’re doing to make sure your kiln reached the right setpoint to make real-time firing adjustments.
- Extreme precision and advanced diagnostics: Finally, heat treat, glass fusing, and ceramic firing are highly scientific processes. Getting the result you want depends on the kiln reaching the right setpoint at the right ramp rate. With TAP, we use PID control algorithms to ensure your kiln adheres as closely to the programmed schedule as possible. Furthermore, we set you up with advanced diagnostics, preventative maintenance alerts, and kiln cost tracking to help you make sure your kiln is always running at peak performance.
We encourage you to check out these how-to videos to see just how easy it is to work with TAP!
