Question:
What is the correct firing time?
Temperature control
At any time we can measure the temperature in the kiln using pyrometers (the digital devices mounted outside the gas kilns). But temperature doesn't give us the whole story regarding how the glazes melt. A more accurate measure is given by using pyrometric cones. Clays and glazes are complex mixtures of minerals. Unlike a simple substance like ice, they don't melt suddenly at a particular temperature. The process of glaze melting requires time for the chemicals to combine and react as well as increasing temperature, so we need a way of measuring both. Pyrometric cones (most often just called cones) are a standardized way of measuring how the heat of the kiln has cumulatively effected the glazes. Cones are composed of much the same stuff as clay and glazes, and each cone number is formulated to deform after being exposed to a particular degree of heat treatment.. The cones are placed in the front of the kiln where they can be seen through the peep-holes in the door while the kiln is firing. When the desired cone bends, the kiln is shut down and allowed to cool. Some cone numbers with approximate corresponding temperatures and firing ranges for different types of work...
Time
The amount of kiln furniture you use in loading a kiln will effect the firing time too.
Vitrify
Vitrify means that an item changes into glass or glassy state by heat and fusion.
Firing time
It is difficult to predict when your kiln will shut off but you can narrow the time down to an approximate hour. The number of pieces you are firing will vary this a great deal.
Kiln wall thickness
Kilns with less than three inch side-walls may require one cone hotter temperatures than those with thicker walls to do the same job.
Gauging temperature by sight
If you look in your kiln through a peep hole, pieces that are near the same temperature will be the same colour. Brighter objects are hotter than darker objects.
Ceramics Frequently Asked Questions
What precautions should I take in the studio?
How do I fire an electric kiln?
What are some stoneware glazes?
What Precautions when using dry ingredients?
How do I apply opaque stains ?
What should I keep in mind when designing my studio?
What tools do I need to start potting?
How do I best promote myself and my work?
What safety aspect should I keep in mind when working with glazes?
What should I remember when firing the kiln?
How do I best publicise my business?
How do I make a simple plaster mold?
How do I fire overglazes/lustres?
How do I create fine feature lines?
How and when sholuld I apply underglazes?
Are they Water or oil base stains?
Are any two kilns are exactly alike?
Can I use sand to stop glaze running onto shelves
Does greenware need to be dry before loading?
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What is The History of the Way of Tea
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What are some good tools for decoration?
How do I apply texture to my piece?
Do I need kiln wash for bisque?
How do I refire a glazed piece ?
What must I remember when Raku firing?
How do I add decoration to my ceramics?
How do I care for my elements?
Does over firing produce poor colour in coloured glaze?s
What are some Black Firing Tips and Tricks?
What is the safest way to pack my ceramics?
How do I do a reduction firing?
automatic kiln sitter, should I trust it?
What are some tips for draining a mold?
What safety measures should I take with Raku Firing?
How do I attach a bat to the wheelhead?
What tools do I need for ceramics
What are suggested plate clay weights?
What do I need to get started?
What tools do I need to make a coil pot
How do I fire ceramic bisque ?
How do I recycle batches of clay quickly
What is the correct firing time?
How to I prepare and make slabs?
What materials are toxic in Ceramics?
Can Crackle glazes be used for food?
How do I avoid S cracks in wheel thrown ware
How do I get the press onside?
What are the Approx. firing times?
Ho do I avoid pitting and pinholes?
How do I decorate my ceramics?
How do I Bisque fire in an electric kiln?
How do I decorate my ceramics?
How do I apply crackle glazes ?
What effects can I achieve with a brush?
How do I Drain small pour holes?
How do I care for my new Kiln?
can I draw directly onto a piece?
How do I fire different bodies?
What is the humming in my new kiln?
What should I remember when firing a new kiln?
how do I get the best results in glazing?
How do I prevent dirt on my greenware?
How do I accomodate Clay Storage in my studio?
How do I prevent sagging during firing?
How do I load my brush for applying underglaze?
Why should I use pottery plaster?
How do I prevent glazes from settling ?
How do I create a woodtone effect?
What are some Doing well Quotes?
How do I care for my elements?
How do I store my throwing tools?
What is the history of Ceramics?
Why do I get black spots in my glaze?
How do I load my kiln for a glaze firing?
| Guru Spotlight |
| Jolyn Wells-Moran |
