How to check top loader for slump

[JeffP]

Hi
I have a Paragon Fusion 14 which is a top loader, elements in lid, and peep hole on side.
Just put in my first attempt at a slump and realised I can't actually see to the bottom of the mold to see if it has slumped fully.
I assume that opening the lid to look is a bad thing, so how do I know when the slump is complete, other than let the schedule run and see?
Thanks
Jeff

[Brock]

Looking briefly at slumping temps is no problem.

[Kevin Midgley]

protect your eyeballs etc.

[JeffP]

Looking briefly at slumping temps is no problem.

Thanks Brock. I was concerned that it would remove too much heat, or worse crack the plate.

[JeffP]

protect your eyeballs etc.

I am wearing green kiln glasses, but I had someone say to me that even that isn't full protection and I should only look when absolutely necessary. What is your take on this? Do the glasses offer fully protection or only partial?

[Kevin Midgley]

I rarely look. Don't want cataracts.
Murphy's law says bleep drops on the glass from opening and closing lid during firing.
Check the suppliers above.

[Laurie Spray]

You can open it enough to take a quick good look. Wear good long gloves and you will be fine (no longnhair, syn clothes). You just never want your glass to fall below 1100 is my rule.
Take your first look around 1200 if it is a shallow mold. Take notes so next time you will not have to open!

[Brock]

I think observing safety precautions is a good idea. However, I didn't know any better and looked in my kilns daily for over 20 years. I'm not recommending it, but sometimes dangers are exaggerated to ensure compliance.

[Brock]

Looking briefly at slumping temps is no problem.

Thanks Brock. I was concerned that it would remove too much heat, or worse crack the plate.

No, you'll be fine.
You can open, take a look and close and you'll only lose 50 degrees, or so.