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 Fahrenheit. Need Celsius?

Forming Stage Diagrams (2 pieces of glass in cross-section)
Tack Fuse Contour Fuse Full Fuse
1350º- 1370º 1400º-1450º 1460º- 1480º

DESCRIPTION BEHAVIOR TEMP
Slump Previously fused project softens and slumps to take the shape of a selected form or mold. 1225º-1250º
Tack Fuse Separate glass layers are fused together with little deformation beyond softening or rounding of edges. 1300º
Contour Fuse 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 yet Full fused.) 1400º-1440º
Full Fuse Separate glass layers are completely conjoined into a single uniform layer, top surface is smooth and void of dimension or relief. 1475º
Combing Recommended temperature for a 3/8-inch thick combing. 1660º


Technical Data
 Strain Point* Anneal Point* Softening Point
Fahreneheit:
 890 (+/- 10) 955 (+/- 10) 1255(+/- 10)
Celsius:
 476 (+/- 6) 513 (+/- 6) 680 (+/- 6)
* 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.

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All rights reserved. Spectrum, Waterglass, Artíque and System 96 are registered trademarks of Spectrum Glass Company, Inc. Baroque is a trademark of Spectrum Glass Company.