Low-Fire Ceramics
Low-Fire typically refers to work fired below about 2000°F (1100°C). Many clays and glazes are designed for this and it is very popular among K-12 schools and hobbyists. Low firing has the advantage of using less energy and generally the clays and glazes are more forgiving of temperature variations and other problems. Some prominent clay artists take advantage of the many glazes and effects that have been developed for low fire so just because this method is highly practical for economics in schools and paint-your-own pottery shops it also has much artistic potential.
Challenges
Certain low-fire applications require the creator to bisque to a higher temperature then they glaze fire. This assures the vitrification of the clay body and can often offer the creator a wider color palette. The hotter a kiln gets the harder it is to achieve certain colors and effects.
Lower firing clay and glazes are sometimes considered not microwave and dishwasher safe. This is not always the case but it is a good idea to ask the manufacturer about your materials before using them.
Market
The market for low-fire ceramics is ever-growing. Clay and glaze manufacturers have designed a wide body of materials for a number of reasons. You can achieve a broader color palette at low-fire temperatures and clays can be designed for full vitrification below 2000 deg f. This lower temperature saves energy, time and money.
Kilns
Any of our kilns can be used for low-fire ceramic ranges. If the application is for a school, the School-Master series kilns have our intuitive One-Touch control that is pre-programmed for low fire applications.
