ivor and olive lewis on fri 15 jul 11
Published theories of Science available to studio potters and ceramic
artists admit to three kinds of Kiln Atmosphere.
1. The Neutral Atmosphere.
This is considered to be one where the gas within a kiln chamber plays no
part in the processing of clay or glaze.
2. The Reducing Atmosphere.
Well know to those who fire with combustible fuels; Gas, Oil and solid fuel=
s
such as Wood. The burning process is adjusted to promote colour
transmutation. Either the flow of fuel is increased or the flow of Air is
reduced.
3. The Oxidising Atmosphere.
Excess Air is freely admitted to into the kiln chamber to suppress colour
transmutation.
Other technologies recognise a fourth processing atmosphere.
4. The Inert Atmosphere.
This is where gases in a kiln atmosphere play no part in chemical changes o=
f
those substances that undergo colour transmutation. These gases are
thermodynamically stable at kiln maturity temperatures or inert because of
their electronic structure. The important examples for clay workers are
Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide. Other industries employ Argon, Helium or fire
under highly reduced pressure, commonly referred to as Vacuum Furnaces.
Comments or Questions !
Best regards,
Ivor Lewis,
REDHILL,
South Australia
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