High and low surface tension Frits

Fired at 1850F. Frit F-524 has run off the tester since 1850F. Frit 3602 is lead bisilicate.

Related Pictures

Two transparents having opposite melt fluidity/surface tension balances

Melt flow test demonstrates surface tension

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This cone 04 flow tester compares two commercial low-fire transparent glazes. Their different approaches to the chemistry are revealed by these melt flows. While 3825B appears to have a higher melt fluidity, its higher surface tension is the real story. This is demonstrated by how the flow meets the runway at a perpendicular angle. Notice that A, by contrast, meanders down the runway in a broad, flat and relatively bubble-free river. Low-fire glazes must pass many more bubbles than their high-temperature counterparts, the low surface tension of A aids in that. A is Amaco LG-10. B is Crysanthos SG213 (Spectrum 700 behaves similarly, although flowing less). Both have advantages and disadvantages and are worth testing in your application.

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Links

Materials	Ferro Frit 3602
Materials	Fusion Frit F-524 A low fire base glaze, add 10% kaolin, adjust thermal expansion using other frits.
Glossary	Surface Tension In ceramics, surface tension is discussed in two contexts: The glaze melt and the glaze suspension. In both, the quality of the glaze surface is impacted.

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