Pyrometric cone

Pyrometric Cone

Pyrometric cones used in kilns

A pyrometric cone is a device used in the ceramic industry to gauge the effects of heatwork during the firing of ceramic materials. Pyrometric cones are designed to melt and bend at specific temperatures, providing a visual indication of the heatwork achieved in a kiln.

Description

Pyrometric cones are made from carefully formulated compositions of ceramic materials. These materials are designed to melt at specific temperatures, allowing the cone to bend when the desired heatwork is reached. The bending of the cone indicates that the kiln has reached the appropriate temperature for the ceramic materials being fired.

Usage

Pyrometric cones are placed in a kiln alongside the ceramic ware. As the temperature in the kiln increases, the cones begin to soften and eventually bend. The degree of bending indicates the amount of heatwork the ceramics have been subjected to. This is crucial for ensuring that the ceramics are fired to the correct specifications.

Types of Pyrometric Cones

There are several types of pyrometric cones, each designed to melt at different temperatures. The most common types are the Orton Cone and the Seger Cone. These cones are numbered to indicate their melting points, with lower numbers melting at lower temperatures.

Applications

Pyrometric cones are used in various applications, including the firing of pottery, porcelain, and other ceramic materials. They are essential tools for ceramic artists and industrial manufacturers to ensure consistent and high-quality results.

History

The use of pyrometric cones dates back to the early 20th century, when they were first developed to provide a reliable method for measuring heatwork in kilns. Since then, they have become a standard tool in the ceramic industry.

See Also

• Kiln
• Ceramic
• Firing (ceramics)

References

• "Pyrometric Cones: Their Use and Function in the Ceramic Industry." Ceramic Review, 2023.
• Orton Ceramic Foundation. "Understanding Pyrometric Cones." Accessed October 2023.

External Links

• [Orton Ceramic Foundation](https://www.ortonceramic.com)

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