Glass Combing is a very invigorating kiln shaping process. Glass is manipulated by warming it up to a softening high temperature and then utilizing a long stainless steel instrument to rake over the substance. This activity is ordinarily executed in a pulling movement. This action blends and smudges the colors collectively into a distinctive design.
Organize the glass and necessary resources for this procedure. Be certain that every piece of glass possesses the matching COE (coefficient of expansion). The glass must be cleansed and dry before starting. Heap the glass a few levels dense or they can be placed on their edges and tacked jointly. Dissimilar hues respond differently to high temperatures. Keep comments of all that has happened throughout the firing.
Abide by every part of the safety precautions, like wearing safety attire. Wear cotton clothes for this procedure. Man made fabric can cause acute burns if melted. Protective green welder’s glasses must be on to guard eyes from the infrared rays of the kiln. These must be put on when looking into the kiln.
A jug of tap water should be near to plunge the hot tool in after combing the glass. Make certain the pot is large enough to hold and support the tool if need be.
The kiln shelf or supporting tray must be coated with up to nine or more coats of kiln wash. This wash breaks down in high temperatures, so put on more layers. Fiber board can also be utilized to shield the kiln shelf. Do not use thin fire for this operation, as the paper disintegrates in soaring heat and can stick to the glass.
Once the glass has been heated up to about 1250 degrees Fahrenheit, permit the pieces to soak at that estimated temperature for around 20 minutes before going on to further heat the glass. The kiln should achieve a temperature of around 1640 degrees Fahrenheit dependent on the COE of the precise glass. Once the glass has reached a molten point, turn off the kiln. Dressed in all the protective garments open up the kiln lid. Only comb through the upper layer of the glass, as combing any more could disrupt the shelf primer below the glass. This raking needs to be completed swiftly prior to the glass cooling. If the glass starts to cool before the procedure is completed, shut the unit and turn the unit back on to warm up the glass.
Dip the raking rod in water if required and dry with a towel prior to resuming any additional raking. If glass should stick to the raking tool during the process, lift up the rod a little and let the scorching glass to cool down before removing the tool from the kiln. If pleased with the results go on to the next steps. If needing more combing, close up the unit and turn it back on. Allow the glass to reheat again before beginning the raking deed once more.
The finished chunk can be flash vented to about 1100 degrees Fahrenheit. This particular feat will stop some added change and to avoid devitrification to form on the glass. The annealing time needs to be expanded prior to allowing the glass to return to room temperature. Allow the completed artwork to cool down below 100 degrees Fahrenheit before opening the kiln.
About the Author:
Recently retired from work, glass fusing has turned into my zeal. I have committed a web site to aid others in gaining knowledge in the sizzling hobby of glass fusing. Please check out my site at http://www.glass-fusing-made-easy.com for additional information and instructions.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Combing Glass
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