Yes, it is possible to enamel in a microwave kiln, though it may present challenges.
Microwave kilns offer a rapid method for firing materials, including certain ceramics and glass, and while the core firing process is possible, applying this to enamels comes with specific considerations.
According to one user's experience, bisquing ceramic in small microwave "kilns" designed for glass is definitely possible, even in just a few minutes of firing time. This demonstrates that the microwave kiln can reach the necessary temperatures to fire materials quickly.
However, applying this rapid firing speed to enamels (and glazes) might be problematic, though.
Potential Challenges When Enameling
Working with enamels requires precise temperature control and soaking times to achieve desired finishes and prevent defects. The speed and nature of microwave firing can make this challenging:
- Rapid Heating: While fast firing is possible, the quick rise to temperature may not allow enamels to melt and flow properly or can lead to issues like blistering or cracking.
- Lack of Control: Many basic microwave kilns may not offer sophisticated temperature control or programming. The reference notes that if the kiln comes with a controller, your life will be made much simpler, implying that a lack of control complicates the enameling process significantly. Achieving specific temperature ramps or holding stages crucial for successful enameling can be difficult or impossible.
- Uneven Heating: Microwaves can heat materials unevenly, potentially leading to inconsistent results across the enameled surface.
Summary
While the physical act of placing an enameled piece in a microwave kiln and firing it is possible, and the kiln can reach firing temperatures quickly, achieving professional or even satisfactory results with enamels may be difficult due to the potential problems associated with the rapid firing speed and lack of precise control often found in these kilns.
