by Cicely Richard

Created on: September 20, 2008

In general, kilns are insulated ovens used to harden, burn or dry materials. The insulated chambers of kilns make them a necessity for many crafters. However, artisans should consider the types of kilns for craft use to determine which one will fit the need of the crafter and the magnitude the pottery project on which they are working.

Before a crafter can identify the different types of kilns, they must first consider the two major types from which the others spring. They are intermittent and continuous. Intermittent kilns can be heated when needed and then cooled when the project is complete. On the other hand, continuous kilns have a controlled temperature. As an object is placed in the kiln, the temperature increases the closer it gets to the center of the chamber.

One of the oldest forms of kilns is the Anagama, which appeared in 5th century Japan. Although there are a number of variations to this style of kiln, they basically contain a long firing chamber. The firing chamber has a firebox on one end and a chimney at the other end. Some also have small stacking ports on their sides. A traditional Anagama is built on a slope in order to get a better updraft. Firing times can be a little as one day to as extensive as a number of weeks.

Bottle kilns are types of intermittent kilns that are shaped like cones or domes. Most of the time, they are built near a vertical wall, with a firebox. They were typically fired by coal and were used extensively during the Industrial Age. Although they are still used today, modern continuous kilns are replacing them.

Top-hat kilns are smaller kilns with two sections, a stationary base with a firebox and a removable top with a handle or some type of pulley. Ceramics are placed on the open base and the top is pulled over the kiln. When the process is over, the top is removed and the projects are removed.

Electric kilns are the result of the advent of electricity. Developed in the early 20th century, they are the types of kilns general found in schools, universities and hobby centers. They are smaller than outside kilns like the Anagama or bottle and do not need wood or coal to heat them. The richness of oxygen in this type of kiln reduces the need for an open flame.

Microwave Assisted Firing is a combination of microwave energy coupled with conventional energy sources such as gas or electric heating. When these energies combine, they process ceramic materials at high temperatures needed for calcinations and sintering. For individuals concerned with saving money, this method reduces energy costs and increases the volume of products that can be produced.

This is a general list of the types of kilns for craft use. The kiln chosen depends on how ambitious crafters are and the amount of money they want to spend on the construction of it.

Sources:

http://www.ceramicstoday.com
http://scitat ion.aip.org/getabs/servlet/GetabsServlet?prog=normal &id=IEESEM001998000474000002000001&idtype=cvips&gifs =yes

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