sam wainford on thu 20 feb 97
Amy Yanalunas wrote:
>
> ----------------------------Original message----------------------------
> Hi Again!
>
> I'm interested in possible methods Clayarters have used to turn the
> oxidation environment of an electric kiln into a reduction environment.
> Has anyone tried addition of CO2 while firing or a CO2/Argon mixture
> piped in through one of the peeps during firing? I think this could be
> a very cheap way to reduce the oxidation environment in an electric kiln
> thereby reducing the wear on the firebrick due to oxidation. And I can
> use all the glazes I love!
>
> I am a hobby potter looking forward to the arrival of my electric kiln,
> but am in love with the glaze affects achieved with a reduction
> environment (Unfortunately I don't have the time, nor the finances to
> build/purchase a gas kiln). Tryin' to get double duty outa my purchase
> so to speak ;) And heck if it works for welding environments why not
> try it with pots too?
>
> Can't wait to hear some responses!
> Amy
Hi Amy, I'm not sure how CO2 behaves, but I know argon settles at the
bottom. It finds the lowest point, and may therefore collect in the
bottom of your kiln if the kiln itself is tight enough to keep it from
seeping out. If it stays in the kiln, it could make loading and
unloading very dangerous as you stack the bottom shelves. If it does
seep out, it could settle in your studio, or basement if the kiln is
inside. You mentioned welding, so I assume you are familiar with the
safety factor of this inert gas. ARGON WILL KILL YOU IN 13 SECONDS!!
It is heavier than air and once it is in the lungs, it cannot be
expelled naturally. PLease be careful if you try this. I'm not trying
to be preachy here, but having worked construction as a pipe welder for
5 years, I've heard many horror stories about people trapped in the
bottom of tanks, holes, basements etc that have filled with argon. Once
it is inhaled, it replaces oxygen in the lungs, and you pass out, unable
to save yourself. Plus, it seems like you would need an awful lot of gas
to keep the reducing atmosphere in the kiln even. I am intrigued by
your idea though. If it were me, I'd avoid usung argon in that
quantity. Sam
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