The Final 100°C before reaching the peak temperature in glaze firing is a crucial stage that holds immense importance. It is during this segment that the glaze on pottery undergoes significant changes, making it essential to pay meticulous attention to this phase.
The programmed ramp employed by potters in reaching this temperature plays a vital role in facilitating the glaze’s thermal process and ensuring the occurrence of optimal chemical reactions. The carefully controlled heating rate allows the glaze ingredients to melt, blend, and become mobile, ultimately achieving a full melt. This transformation is known as glaze maturity.
Additionally, off-gassing continues to take place as the glaze approaches its full melt. At this point, the glaze becomes sufficiently fluid to heal the surface imperfections caused by the escape of gases, thereby enhancing the overall appearance of the glazed pot.
Following this final rise in temperature, a cooling process ensues. During this stage, the glaze solidifies and transforms into glass, resulting in various finishes ranging from smooth, transparent, and glossy to matte, with different colourless or coloured textures.
The meticulous control of the heating rate by the potter in the last 100°C is crucial to ensure that the glaze enters its thermal process effectively, facilitating the desired chemical reactions and achieving the desired outcome. By paying close attention to this final 100°C, potters can significantly influence the final appearance and quality of their glazed pottery.
In conclusion, understanding and effectively managing the last 100°C before reaching the peak temperature can greatly impact the final outcome, resulting in beautifully glazed pottery with the desired finishes and textures.
Happy Potting to you! 😀
