<P> Kilns are an essential part of the manufacture of all ceramics . Ceramics require high temperatures so chemical and physical reactions will occur to permanently alter the unfired body . In the case of pottery , clay materials are shaped , dried and then fired in a kiln . The final characteristics are determined by the composition and preparation of the clay body and the temperature at which it is fired . After a first firing , glazes may be used and the ware is fired a second time to fuse the glaze into the body . A third firing at a lower temperature may be required to fix overglaze decoration . Modern kilns often have sophisticated electrical control systems to firing regime , although pyrometric devices are often also used . </P>
<P> Kilns are an essential part of the manufacture of all ceramics . Ceramics require high temperatures so chemical and physical reactions will occur to permanently alter the unfired body . In the case of pottery , clay materials are shaped , dried and then fired in a kiln . The final characteristics are determined by the composition and preparation of the clay body and the temperature at which it is fired . After a first firing , glazes may be used and the ware is fired a second time to fuse the glaze into the body . A third firing at a lower temperature may be required to fix overglaze decoration . Modern kilns often have sophisticated electrical control systems to firing regime , although pyrometric devices are often also used . </P>
kiln-fired clay works of sculpture or pottery are called
kiln-fired clay works of sculpture or pottery are called
ceramics
ceramics