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That ash melts at higher temp- it mixes with the glaze or acts as a glaze on bare clay. I spend a lot of time at low tempo build up ash in the top and back of the kiln- it races across the bottom at high temp
Several months ago you had a post about ash melting. I always figured that ash was as far as wood could burn down in the process. Not that I didn't believe it, but I had had to see if for myself. So one day I took the Mapp torch out and melted ash in the bottom of the stove when it was cold. Pretty interesting seeing it melt away.
It melts- solid turns to liquid. Some potassium will vaporize at some temp. There's chemistry between potassium and other minerals in ash and the clay as well. It acts as a flux of sorts.
At one point it sounded like a plane, and sometimes the rushing noise sort of puffs like a train. Normally it's not that loud,but one time at high temp I threw in a big sappy piece of pine and the noise made me take a step back. I suddenly started thinking about how much coals and super hot brick was roaring in front of me
Fantastic work man. I really liked the overhead shot of all the mugs with the variety of colors. The new camera looks to be taking some fine photos. I am amazed at the color change before and after firing.