TechNotes 1: Knowing Your Kiln

Overview

When working with glass, an enormous range of variables can affect the final outcome of your project. In order to maintain maximum control of your project, it’s a good idea to have an understanding of these variables. And many of these variables will be the result of the specific kiln you are using.

Therefore, for those who wish to exercise maximum control over their kiln-glass projects it’s crucial to know your kiln, to understand how heat is distributed within it, and why.

Kilns rarely heat evenly. Top-fired kilns, for example, tend to be hotter in the center. Side-fired kilns are frequently hottest around the perimeter. Your kiln will likely be equipped with a pyrometer that can tell you the kiln’s working temperature, but the pyrometer measures from just one point within the kiln chamber and may not give you an accurate picture of the heat elsewhere in the kiln chamber.

To combat this uncertainty, we recommend conducting a few preliminary tests on new kilns. This will help you gain an understanding of your kiln’s heating patterns.