3.5: Troubleshooting

Types of Clay and Their Properties

1. Clay Cracking: Ensure compatibility of clay body with the intended firing temperature.

2. Poor Plasticity: Wedge clay thoroughly to align particles and improve workability.

Preparing and Recycling Clay

1. Difficulty Wedging: Try spiral or stack wedging techniques for easier clay conditioning.

2. Recycled Clay Too Dry/Wet: Adjust consistency by adding water or letting it dry to the desired moisture level.

The Science of Clay: From Plasticity to Vitreousness

1. Unsatisfactory Green Strength: Adjust the clay formulation to include more grog or sand for better structural integrity.

2. Vitrification Issues: Ensure the firing schedule is correct for the clay type to achieve proper vitrification.

Storing and Reclaiming Clay

1. Clay Drying Out: Store clay in airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic to maintain moisture.

2. Contaminated Clay: Keep different clay bodies separate and label storage containers to avoid cross-contamination.

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