Glossary of tiling terms

up-draught kiln — type of intermittent kiln. It operates on the principle of upward movement of combustion gases. In this kiln, the firebox is located at the bottom, and the combustion gases rise through the firing chamber, eventually exiting through one or more openings in the roof.

The firing process in an up-draught kiln involves placing the ceramic wares or tiles in the firing chamber, which is positioned above the firebox. The firebox generates heat by burning fuel such as wood, coal, or gas, producing hot combustion gases. These gases then ascend through the firing chamber, circulating around the ceramic objects and heating them to the desired temperature.

As the combustion gases rise, they create an upward draught, pulling in fresh air from the bottom of the kiln. This airflow helps maintain the combustion process and ensures efficient heat distribution throughout the kiln. The hot gases pass over the ceramic objects, transferring heat to them and causing the desired changes in the clay or glaze. The combustion gases, after travelling through the firing chamber, exit the kiln through one or more openings in the roof.