Key Temperatures for Bisque Firing (UK)
Bisque Firing Temperature: The temperature range for bisque firing typically falls between cone 06 (around 999°C) and cone 04 (about 1060°C). This range is suitable for most types of clay, including earthenware and stoneware.
Bisque Firing Temperature for Earthenware: Specifically for earthenware, aim for the lower end of the bisque firing range (cone 06). This temperature effectively removes water and organic material from the clay, making it porous and perfect for glazing.
Bisque Firing Temperature for Stoneware: For stoneware, aim for a bisque firing temperature around cone 5 to 6, which translates to approximately 2167°F to 2232°F (1186°C to 1222°C).
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The Firing Ramp
Initial Heating (Candling): Begin with a low-temperature preheat phase (candling) to ensure all remaining moisture is removed. This stage is particularly important for thicker pieces.
Ramp Up Temperature Gradually:
Increase the temperature slowly to prevent cracks or explosions. A general guideline is to start with a rate of 55-111°C per hour until reaching 538°C, then adjust according to the specific requirements of your clay body and kiln.
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Bisque Firing Pottery Tips
1. Always ensure your pottery is completely dry before loading it into the kiln to prevent explosions.
2. Place a cone pack inside your kiln to monitor the actual temperature and make adjustments as needed.
3. Keep a log of your firings to refine your process over time, noting the specific schedule and outcomes for each batch.
Reading a Bisque Firing Chart
A bisque firing chart provides a visual guide to the temperatures and times needed for the firing process. It usually includes:
Ramp Speed: How quickly the kiln should increase in temperature, usually expressed in degrees per hour.
Target Temperature: The specific temperature you need to reach for your type of clay.
Hold/Soak Time: The length of time the kiln stays at the target temperature to ensure even heat distribution throughout the pottery.
There is probably information about the recommended firing schedule for your specific clay on the manufacturer or retailer's website.
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As always, if you have any other questions pelase reach out to us at info@thepotterypeople.co.uk!