The computer controls of our Geil kiln will allow us to get consistent results on our reduction firing. The Geil kiln has two different PXG-4 computerized controllers, the Process Temperature Controller and the Auto-Damper Controller. The first controls the amount of gas and the second opens and closes the damper. The temperature controller uses a pyrometer and the Auto-Damper atmospheric control uses an oxygen probe. These programmable controllers get input from a personal computer in which the ramp/soak cycles are entered. In addition to temperature, the ramp/soak cycles include the atmospheric settings. The computer program also logs the actual firing stats for review. Since the amount of gas and the amount of opening in the damper effect both the level of reduction and the temperature, this computerized firing process creates a dance between the two controllers. They both react to meet the ramp / soak / atmosphere requirements.
We enjoy bringing artisans and fine craft enthusiasts together in a common workspace. Working together provides an opportunity to share the ideas and techniques that help us grow as artists.
We generally fire low fire and cone six oxidation. Occasionally we fire cone 10 reduction. Our glaze room has a selection of studio glazes based on the book "Mastering Cone Six Glazes" by Hesselberth & Roy. These glazes were developed for durability, fit and aesthetics. We also use Val Cushing's Handbook for general reference and additonal mid range glazes.
Most of our cone ten glazes come from John Britt's book "The Complete Guide to High-Fire Glazes".
| The equipment is new and selected for quality. This includes our pride and joy, an eighteen cubic foot Geil gas kiln with computerized firing control and computerized damper control. We also have an L & L front loading electric kiln. These are two of the finest kilns available. |  |
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The same goes with the rest of the equipment: Ten CXC Brent pottery wheels, a Northstar slab roller, Peter Pugger Pug Mill/Mixer, Super Duper Extruder and a Giffin Grip for trimming. For atmospheric firing, we have a small soda kiln and a Laguna Raku kiln. |
We have easy access to good sinks, large work tables, and plenty of shelving for your work.
LampLight Studio is a ceramic arts center focused on clay and warm glass. We are an open studio located near St. Louis available to the public for classes and craft projects.
