TechNotes 2: The Vitrigraph Kiln

Overview

To achieve control in firing glass, it is necessary to understand how heat is distributed within the kiln you are using. Kiln heat is rarely even. Top-fired kilns tend to be hotter in the center. Side-fired kilns are frequently hotter around the perimeter. The pyrometer reads only one point within the kiln chamber and may not give you an accurate indication of the heat treatment the glass is receiving. In working with a new kiln, making a few preliminary tests will help you to understand the kiln’s heating patterns and gain better control over your results.

TechNote 2: The Vitrigraph Kiln PDF
Revised August 1, 2009.