Glass Melting Furnace Instructions
Use a glass-melting furnace to melt glass when you do not have access to a glass-making workshop. These furnaces can run on propane and may come apart to be transported or moved. Every furnace is different, but here are some general guidelines to follow. Keeping a log of temperature, melting times and any issues that come up will help you use your glass-melting furnace safely and efficiently.
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Instructions
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Turn the heat on and bring the temperature up slowly to 700 degrees Celsius. When you hit this temperature, bring the pressure up to one bar.
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Allow the temperature to climb to 1000 degrees Celsius. The crucible will appear to be red hot at this high of a temperature.
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Charge the pot with crushed glass when you have hit this temperature. Wait about a half hour, and then charge the pot with more glass. If you need to add more, wait another half hour before you do so. Continue this charging interval until the pot is full.
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Allow the glass-melting furnace to fun on high for about an hour. When you reach 1170 degrees Celsius, turn down the temperature so that it can even out. Ideally you will want the temperature to stay at 1180 degrees or so. Let the glass continue to heat until it reaches the desired clarity.
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Clean crucible out as much as possible and remember to turn off the gas.
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Allow the furnace to cool down. This usually takes about 12 hours. If you have to, be careful to not move it until it is at least warm to the touch.
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Tips & Warnings
Every glass-melting furnace will be a bit different. Consult the user's manual for temperature and timing specifics.
References
Resources
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