CS26 TAP Controller Clamshell Large Capacity Glass Kiln

PARAGON CS26: Professional Performance in a Monumental Clamshell Design

The PARAGON CS Series was designed with glass artists in mind—those who need full access to their kiln shelf for assembling delicate designs, layering glass, or arranging intricate frit patterns. The "CS" stands for Clamshell, and every model in the series opens from the bottom up, giving you total visibility and control over your setup before firing begins.

With reliable heat distribution, fast heat-up times, and the intuitive Sentinel controller, the CS Series offers exceptional performance for glass fusing, slumping, casting, and more.

PARAGON CS26: Our Largest Clamshell Kiln for Expansive Firing Freedom

Designed for serious professionals, the PARAGON CS26 delivers the largest clamshell workspace in the CS Series with a generous 26" x 26" x 13" square chamber. Its single-opening clamshell design gives you full access to the kiln floor by lifting the entire lid and wall structure upward—making it easy to assemble large, complex projects directly on the shelf without risk of shifting or smudging.

This is the kiln of choice for artists who work on a monumental scale or run continuous production in a busy studio setting.

Superior Heating from Top and Sides

The CS26 is equipped with top-mounted heating elements enclosed in quartz tubes—a premium feature that protects the coils, improves safety, and reduces kiln dust. These elements are paired with three additional sidewall element rows housed in recessed firebrick grooves. The result is exceptionally even heat distribution, crucial for larger glass pieces and multi-layered fusing.

Quartz tubes also shield the elements from contact with debris and foreign materials, helping prolong element life and maintain a clean kiln interior.

Sentinel TAPXpress. The Future of Firing Control

Equipped with the new Sentinel TAPXpress touchscreen controller, powered by the TAP II platform, the CS26 brings intuitive control to a professional-grade kiln. Gone are the days of firing codes and complex key sequences—now, everything is at your fingertips. The bright, responsive touchscreen offers a smartphone-like experience, displaying logical menus and full-text instructions that make setup and operation effortless.

With the Sentinel TAPXpress, you can create, label, and store an unlimited number of firing schedules. Real-time progress graphs and clear indicators keep you informed at every stage. The controller also connects to the TAP Kiln Control Mobile app, allowing you to monitor and control your kiln remotely, receive firing notifications, and access extra features through optional in-app tools. Preventive maintenance alerts, automatic updates, and safety shutoff functions give you total peace of mind from start to finish.

Engineered for Strength and Comfort

This kiln is built for daily, professional use. The heavy-duty steel base supports a reversible firebrick floor, and the walls are constructed with hand-selected insulating firebricks. Air pistons assist the clamshell lift, while a full-width cool-touch handle makes opening and closing smooth and secure.

A woven rope seal surrounds the top edge, creating a soft gasket that cushions the lid and enhances heat retention. The top of the kiln is reinforced with a welded sheet metal cover and ventilated to help keep the exterior cool during operation. Element connectors are protected by a dual-cover system with a 3" air gap for added safety and longevity.

Optional Add-Ons for Maximum Flexibility

• Furniture Kit – Includes 1 C-24GL shelf (24” x 24” x 1”), 4 square posts (1” x ½”), and 1 lb. of glass separator.

• Lid Safety Switch – Required in certain countries (e.g., Canada, EU), this option disables heating elements when the lid is open.

• Heavy-Duty Rolling Table – Choose from 32” x 32” x 18” or 32” x 32” x 31” models, with locking casters and rugged steel construction.

• Color Options – Choose from 8 vivid colors—berry, black, blue, hot pink, jade, navy, purple, or turquoise—at no extra cost.

Paragon’s cordierite shelves resist thermal shock and warping, ensuring stable, repeatable results even under intense daily use.

The Perfect Kiln for:

• Large-format glass panels, installations, or wall art

• Production studios and teaching labs with frequent firings

• Artists specializing in large-scale slumping or multi-step fusing

• Professionals looking for a flagship kiln with elite control and maximum workspace

Standard Features:

• Sentinel TAPXpress touchscreen controller

• Single-opening clamshell design with air piston assist

• Quartz-tube-enclosed top elements + sidewall elements

• Ceramic rope gasket for soft lid seal

• Durable steel lid cover with ventilation

• Removable front control panel for maintenance

• Reversible firebrick floor

• Heavy-duty steel base with mar-proof rubber feet

• Dual mechanical relays (optional mercury relay available)

• Stainless steel-sheathed, special-limit thermocouple

• Cool-touch full-width lid handle

• Operates on 240V power (model-specific wiring details apply)

Built with Pride in Mesquite, Texas

The CS26 is built by hand in Mesquite, Texas by a team of experienced craftsmen and women who understand the demands of professional studios. Every kiln is rigorously tested, and backed by a two-year limited warranty that stands up to daily, high-volume use.

With decades of expertise behind every weld and wire, Paragon kilns are made to last—and made to help you master your art. When you choose the CS26, you're choosing a serious tool built for serious work.