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Energy Costs
The cost of energy remains one of the larger overheads in running a glass studio. Far too many batches, made commercially or privately, have not paid enough attention to viscosity characteristics. The viscosity of the melt at upper fining temperatures determines how quickly the seed is eliminated from the melt. A discreet amount of some chemicals can make a big difference to how fast a glass will melt and fine out.
The Gaffer batch formulation has focused on bringing the theoretical log 2 temperature down to 1325oC (2420oF) (Spruce Pine 87 is 1380oC (2516oF) by comparison) and working temperatures down to a more comfortable 1080oC (1976oF) range. Tests conducted on a 150 kg (330 lb) capacity freestanding pot furnace, have shown a gas saving of 10% when run at 1080oC (1976oF) compared to 1150oC (2100oF). This represents a considerably lower energy bill and less wear and tear on refractories. Pellets show a 15% faster melting rate than free flowing batch. The lower energy savings this batch achieves could come close to paying for it.
• Gaffer Batch
• Energy Costs
• Working Properties
• Compatibility
• Physical Properties
• Durability
• Impact on Refractories and the Environment
• Foot Notes