Mass Specifications
In order to obtain the correct shapes and consistency of the figures in the ceramic, it is necessary to analyse the properties of the mass beforehand. In this way it is possible to apply the right steps to the material for every ceramic work and for every idea in the ceramic process. With the following definitions in the Ceramic Encyclopedia, nothing can go wrong when it comes to having fun.
Dry
water, which is necessary for the sound to be vivid, must be eliminated during the drying process. Pore water, which has settled in between the clay particles, must escape. The mass loses its plasticity. The mould “disappears“. Finally, the spring water, absorbed by the clay like a sponge, also dries. The mass is spröde.
leather hard
After escape of the pore water from the clay mass it is gas-tight. All particles touch each other. Dry shrinkage sets in. Now the leather-hard condition has occurred. Vessels can be turned off, engobes applied, handles angarniert or the surface machined.
moist / soft
In the condition of a moist clay mass it is optimally plastic and well suited for turning as well as for building up.
Wet
Dried clay mass can be made picture-perfect again with water. Or clay flours can be mixed with water. After this process filter presses or gypsum tubs are used for the removal. Only in a moist state can a mass be used again to form a picture, plastically and for further processing.
lean, not plastic
Low clay masses contain unplastic particles, are more open-pored and therefore less susceptible to shrinkage and cracking. However, the leaning also means a less imitable mass, which is not well suited for turning, but offers great advantages for the brick and tile industry.
Grease, good plastic
clays, which are rich in clay minerals and very fine, need a lot of mixing water to make a picture and have a great binding power are called fat clays. Due to their high dry shrinkage, they are very susceptible to cracking and warping.
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