Impact on Refractories and the Environment.

Pelletizing the batch has obvious benefits, not only melting faster, but cutting dust to virtually zero, leading to longer superstructure refractory life and lower dust levels in the studio generally. It should be noted that some of the new batches coming from Glasma and Philips contain Barium carbonate in quite large percentages, which is not only toxic, but at amounts over 4%, quite corrosive on pots. Gaffer batch is relatively non-toxic, containing neither Barium nor Lead oxides. We decided against fluoride additions, which, while useful for lowering viscosity, are volatile at melt temperatures and speed up the corrosion of pots and superstructures. Fluorides also contribute to toxic and corrosive flue emissions. Gaffer batch proves to be a low impact glass from a corrosion and toxicity viewpoint. It is equally suitable for either electric⁴ or gas firing.

• Gaffer Batch
• Energy Costs
• Working Properties
• Compatibility
• Physical Properties
• Durability
• Impact on Refractories and the Environment
• Foot Notes