Glass Furnace
The melting tank that holds glass at working temperature, day and night, for the whole life of the studio.
Gathering
| Diameter | 90 - 160 mm |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminised silica or aramid fibre |
| Thickness | 6 mm |
| Rated radiant exposure | Up to 1200 °C source temperature |
| Fits pipe diameter | 16 - 25 mm |
Compatible glass types
Soda-lime
Borosilicate
Lead crystal
Compatibility assumes the tool is rated for the working temperature of that glass family. Check the maker's documentation before use.
Overview
The radiant load coming out of a glory hole or a furnace port is intense enough to blister skin in a fraction of a second. A heat shield is a disc or a sleeve of aluminised fibre that sits partway along the pipe and blocks that line of sight. It does not make the pipe cool, it removes the direct radiant path to your hand.
Safety notes
- A heat shield is not a substitute for gloves and correct posture. Use both.
- Check the shield for charring. A scorched shield loses reflectivity and stops working.
Using it well
Practical guidance
- Position the shield about a third of the way back from your front hand so it does not foul your grip.
- Replace the shield when the foil surface dulls. Shiny means reflective.
What to look for
- Aluminised face that reflects radiant heat
- Split collar for fitting without removing the pipe
- Lightweight enough not to affect balance
High temperature tool
This tool operates in or near the working range of molten glass. Read the safety notes above before first use, and never work with it without eye protection, heat-resistant gloves and working extraction.
Reference information only. Specifications are published ranges drawn from manufacturer documentation and normalised for comparison. They vary between makers and between individual units. This page does not sell or endorse any product, and does not guarantee any result. Follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions and take hands-on instruction before operating hot glass equipment.
Related
Tools used alongside the heat shield
Glory Hole
A reheating chamber that brings a cooling piece back to working temperature without touching the main furnace.
Shaping / Blowing
Exhaust Hood
The capture canopy and duct that remove combustion gases and metal oxide fumes from the studio.
Gathering
See the gathering & blowing workflow
Read the category overview, or jump into the 3D Studio to see these tools applied to a live piece.