Load and prepare the kiln for firing crafted ceramics

URN: CCSCRC09
Business Sectors (Suites): Craft,Craft (Ceramics)
Developed by: SDS
Approved on: 01 Mar 2014

Overview

This standard covers the skills and knowledge you need to load and prepare the kiln ready for firing. This involves loading products to be fired into the kiln in line with safety procedures to meet requirements. You will check the kiln, products, equipment and materials, minimise waste and rework, make changes to how you work within the limits of your responsibility and ensure that that the completed work meets required standards. 

This standard is suitable for those who are self-employed, working for a sole practitioner or within a workshop or studio. 

The following should be considered when working in craft: 

 Safe working practices 

 Ethics and sustainability


Performance criteria

You must be able to:

​You must be able to: 

P1 load items of ware in to the kiln taking into consideration the needs and special requirements of certain shapes and methods of firing 

P2 load the kiln effectively and efficiently, making use of available kiln space 

P3 ensure any necessary temperature measuring devices are positioned correctly in the kiln 

P4 ensure the kiln is loaded according to requirements 

P5 seal the kiln in preparation for starting the firing and implement any necessary safety precautions 

P6 ensure any vents are positioned correctly in preparation for firing the kiln 

P7 ensure the kiln is sealed and set up according to requirements and safety legislation


Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

​You must be able to: 

K1 the type of firing are you preparing the kiln for 

K2 what the condition should ware be in for this type of firing and what would happen if ware were fired in the wrong condition 

K3 how the kiln you are using is fuelled and the approximate capacity of the kiln 

K4 how to check the kiln is in good working order and ready for use 

K5 differences in the process of loading a kiln with varying types of ceramics 

K6 the process of loading the kiln and the important factors which must be taken into consideration 

K7 the importance of loading the kiln efficiently and economically 

K8 what devices can be used to measure the temperature of the kiln, where they should be positioned in the kiln and why 

K9 what materials are used when loading kilns, why are they used, and how 

K10 how to prepare the kiln for the firing process once it has been loaded 

K11 the tools materials and equipment needed when loading and preparing the kiln for firing, and how to check they are in good working order 

K12 what harm could be caused to ceramics, property and people whilst loading and preparing the kiln for firing and how can this be prevented


Scope/range


Scope Performance


Scope Knowledge


Values


Behaviours


Skills


Glossary


Links To Other NOS


External Links


Version Number

1

Indicative Review Date

01 Mar 2017

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

Creative & Cultural Skills

Original URN

CCSCRC09

Relevant Occupations

Artistic and Literary Occupations, Ceramicist, Crafts, Creative Arts and Design, Artist

SOC Code


Keywords

ceramics; craft; kiln; firing;