System 96^® Forming Stages

Forming Stages information is provided to help users understand the melting characteristics of System 96 products. The temperatures provided are estimates for common kilns firing a project about 12-inches (30 cm) diameter or square, consisting of two full glass layers and a third design layer (fired thickness about 1/4-inch (6mm)).

Use these guidelines as a starting place, then make adjustments to obtain the desired results for your specific project using your unique equipment.

Temperatures are given in degrees Celsius. Need Fahrenheit?

Forming Stage Diagrams (2 pieces of glass in cross-section)
Tack Fuse	Dimensional Surface	Full Fuse
700º	760º - 780º	802º

DESCRIPTION	BEHAVIOR
Slump	Previously fused project softens and slumps to take the shape of a selected form or mold.	660º-675º
Tack Fuse	Separate glass layers are fused together with little deformation beyond softening or rounding of edges.	700
Dimensional Surface	Separate glass layers are fused together, edges are soft and rounded, project surface retains a degree of dimesion desired by the artist. (Any degree beyond Tack but not Full fused.)	760º-780º
Full Fuse	Separate glass layers are completely conjoined into a single uniform layer, top surface is smooth and void of dimension or relief.	800º
Combing	Recommended temperature for a 3/8-inch thick combing.	904º

Technical Data	Strain Point*	Anneal Point*	Softening Point
Fahreneheit:	890 (+/- 10)	955 (+/- 10)	1255(+/- 10)
Celsius:	476 (+/- 6)	513 (+/- 6)	680 (+/- 6)
**At the At the Anneal Point of a glass, internal stresses are largely relieved in a matter of minutes. At the Strain Point, internal stresses are substantially relieved in a matter of hours.