Steven Branfman on mon 31 dec 01
Original Question: Question is does anyone have bad results firing in cold
weather, say for
example 40 degrees or thereabouts? If so are there successful ways of
working around it? Again, thanks in advance for sharing your knowledge!
Winston and friends,
This question makes me laugh but please do not take it as though I am making
fun of you! 40 degrees is cold weather? Ummmmm...............
Your question does not make clear whether you are presently having bad
results. Are you? Raku firing can be done in any weather that you can stand
to be in. 40 degrees in hardly cold in ceramics terms. The major effect that
cold weather has on the raku process is quick cooling and the tendancy for
small propane tanks to freeze up prematurely. As long as you can deal with
that then you will be fine. To slow down the cooling in the post firing
phase, use double barrels or cans or whatever you use. The air space between
the two cans will serve as insulation and will slow the cooling. For serious
situations, fill the space with fiberglass insulation or refractory fiber.
The larger the space, the better the insulating value. As far as the propane
tanks go............use the largest tanks you can. When they begin to freeze,
pour warm water over them. NEVER turn a propane tank on its side. The only
time this is safe is if you are using a liquid withdrawl combustion system.
Best wishes to all on a new year filled with joy, contentment, and discovery,
Steven Branfman
| |
|
