Getting to know the kiln

Potters who think they can buy any kind of kiln to use will have to rethink because even though the kiln is built in the same way but no kiln produces the same firing effects because every kiln has its flaws and has different details. Therefore, the best thing the potters should know in order to use the kiln is to understand the nature of the kiln that they want to use.

Firing multiple workpieces will allow potters to get to know the unique points of the kiln that they use regularly and allow them to use their trusty kiln efficiently and as they wish for no matter…

• Downdraft kiln takes longer to fire than updraft kiln but it receives more uniform heat, so it is suitable for firing large workpieces.
• Gas kilns can control the firing more thoroughly than electric kilns. The more nozzles the more detailed control. In controlling the kiln, potters must understand how to adjust the nozzles, understand the function of each nozzle, and how to adjust the gas pressure differently for each nozzle in order to ensure the consistency of firing process.
• Petrol and impure petroleum takes longer than gas and propane gas burns faster than natural gas because it has more BTU.
• A fiber kiln cools faster than a brick kiln because brick retains heat better. The temperature will rise quickly in a fiber kiln or a high efficiency electric kiln and the glaze firing will not be done well. Therefore, the firing should be controlled to slow down the process or to improve the glaze formula and lower the temperature to be around 30-50°C.