Introduction to Kilns
A kiln is a thermally insulated chamber used to turn objects made from clay into pottery, tiles, and bricks. Modern kilns are used in ceramics, metallurgy, and cement manufacturing, among other industries. Kilns produce temperatures sufficient to complete processes like hardening, drying, or chemical changes.
How Kilns are Used in Different Industries
Various industries such as ceramics, glass, construction, cremation, metallurgy, and cement manufacturing utilize kilns for processing raw materials or semi-finished products. Kilns can be updraft or shuttle kilns with movable heating chambers. Both electric and gas kilns are commonly used, with modern kilns incorporating computerized controls for precise adjustments during the firing cycle.
Industrial Applications of Kilns
Large, industrial pottery kilns typically use natural gas due to its cleanliness, efficiency, and ease of control. Smaller production industries and crafts may use both electric and gas kilns. Kilns are also used to apply coatings or finishes to items at high temperatures and rapidly cool them.
The Firing Process in Kilns
The firing process in kilns turns raw clay into ceramic through high-temperature heating. Clay undergoes bisque firing and glaze firing as part of this transformation. Roller kilns, which bake materials continuously, are commonly employed for producing ceramics, porcelain, and other high-temperature treated materials.