Question:
What is a reduction firing?
How to
The usual method of creating a reducing atmosphere is to close off the flue or chimney. This can be done by laying a piece of kiln shelf or kiln brick across the top of the flue/chimney, or if it is a larger chimney, by pushing in the damper (a piece of tile which can be pushed into a slot in the chimney, which is at an accessible height, reducing the air flow). Reduction firings are generally not recommended for electric kilns, although it is possible to achieve reducing effects by introducing combustible materials (e.g. twigs) into the kiln chamber through the spy hole. But the carbon monoxide tends to attack the kiln elements (electrical coils), which then deteriorate quickly.
Black Firing Tips and Tricks
Black Firing Tips and Tricks Read this great article on Blackfiring by one of the masters of this technique, Salvatori Lolicato: Black-firing - Black Firing Tips and tricks
Reduction firing
In a reduction firing, the oxygen supply to the kiln chamber is restricted, resulting in a saturation of free carbons in the kiln atmosphere, mostly in the form of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. In a strong reduction firing, flames will lick out of the flue and through other openings or cracks in the kiln walls. This is because the flame needs oxygen to burn, so it will try to get it from wherever it can. The reduction cycle generally begins between 1600o-1900o F (900o - 1000o C). Typical reduction glazes are 'copper reds' and 'shinos'.
Anagama
Anagama
The Anagama kiln will usually consist of of one long firing chamber with a firebox at one end and a flue at the other. Often there will also be smaller stacking ports on the side of the kiln. Traditional Anagama kilns are built on a slope, so that a better updraught can be achieved. Firing time can vary from one day to several weeks. The Anagama kiln is the oldest style of kiln in Japan and has been around since medieval times. The beauty of Anagama style firing lies in the natural ash glazes that can be achieved, and in the excitement of the long firing itself, appreciated by many potters all over the world. There are many different designs for the Anagama kiln, not only in Japan, but on other continents. Not only are there different designs, but also different methods of firing and stacking. No two firings are ever exactly alike, in contrast to let's say, the electric kiln.
About Raku
Raku originated in Japan in the 16th century, where raku vessels were and still are used in the traditional tea ceremony. It is a low-fire technique, where bisqued work is quickly heated to red hot temperature and then taken out of the kiln and reduced in wood shavings, newspaper or a similar combustible material. Raku ware is decorated with low-fire glazes, which usually contain a lot of frit. The clays used for this firing technique contain a high percentage of grog, so the work will be able to withstand the high temperature fluctuations. Raku, with its battle with the elements of fire and smoke is an exciting technique, one that is suited to communal firings.
Copper Lustre
Copper Lustre: Raku Reduction. Not suitable for tableware!
Gerstley Borate 80
Cornwall Stone 20
add Copper Carb 3
Red Iron Oxide 1
Things to learn
Special knowledge of woodfiring is necessary -which wood burns best? What different types of wood will result in special ash glaze effects? Where in the kiln should pots be placed for certain effects? (This is an individual matter for each and every kiln and firing cycle). How long will a firing take? (It may actually be a matter of days or even weeks.) What firing cycles are necessary? If you want to know more, check out these tips on how to build a woodfiring kiln.
Ceramics Frequently Asked Questions
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automatic kiln sitter, should I trust it?
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| Guru Spotlight |
| Patricia Walters-Fischer |
