Fire clay is a specific kind of clay used in the manufacture of ceramics. The fire attribution is given for its refractory characteristics (resistant to high temperatures, has a fusion point higher than 1,600°C), and therefore being suitable for lining furnaces (firebrick), and manufacture of utensils used in the metalworking industries, such as crucibles, saggers, retorts, and glass pots. Its chemical composition consists of a high percentage of silicon and aluminium oxides, and a low percentage of the oxides of sodium, potassium, iron, and calcium.
There are two types of fire clay: flint clay and plastic fire clay.
Last updated: 05-24-2005 22:56:14