Kiln Firing Training Course
eLearning course
Duration: 4-5 hours | Learner level: Beginner
Firing is one of the most critical stages in ceramic production and every saleable ceramic item must pass successfully through this process. This introductory course provides a clear understanding of how to control and manage firing to achieve consistent, high‑quality results. Participants will explore the core reactions that take place within clay, quartz and feldspar bodies as temperature increases, and how these changes influence the microstructure, strength and overall performance of fired ceramics.
The course examines the firing curve in detail, highlighting key control points and the transformations that occur at each stage. You will learn how heat work is measured using pyrometers and thermocouples, and why accurate measurement is essential for understanding the combined effects of temperature and time in the kiln. Different kiln types, atmospheres and pressure conditions will also be introduced, along with how these factors impact firing behaviour.
Finally, the course covers common firing defects and troubleshooting techniques, enabling you to diagnose issues, improve efficiency and apply best‑practice principles in energy use, process optimisation and quality control.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the principles and key reactions that occur in clay, quartz, and feldspar bodies during firing.
- Interpret and control firing curves, recognising the purpose of each stage and its influence on final properties.
- Describe how heat work is measured using pyrometers and thermocouples, and understand their role in accurate kiln monitoring.
- Identify the main types of kilns, their features, and the effects of atmosphere and pressure on firing behaviour.
- Apply technical principles such as gas laws, heat transfer, Darcy’s law, and combustion to optimise kiln operation.
- Recognise and diagnose common firing problems, understanding their root causes and potential solutions.
- Apply best‑practice approaches for process control, quality improvement, maintenance planning, and energy efficiency.
Who will benefit?
This course is ideal for anyone involved in ceramic production, firing operations, quality control, or process optimisation. It is particularly valuable for technicians, operators, supervisors, early‑career ceramicists, and professionals working with ceramic tableware, whitewares, structural ceramics or related materials. No prior in‑depth knowledge is required, making this an excellent starting point for those seeking to build confidence in understanding and managing the firing process.
If you are completely new to ceramics and would benefit from a broader introduction to ceramic materials and the full manufacturing process—from raw materials to finished products—we recommend completing the introductory courses linked below before attending this course. These will provide helpful context and enhance your understanding of the role and importance of the firing process.
What is included?
- Access to 4-5 hours worth of eLearning content developed by Lucideon experts.
- 12 months of access to the eLearning course, which you can revisit anytime. Your progress is saved via your access link, so you can complete the training at your own pace without needing to finish in one sitting.
Skills obtained
- Process control and optimisation
- Problem solving
- Troubleshooting
- Knowledge of firing curves, behaviour and ceramic reactions
- Knowledge of kiln operation, monitoring and atmospheres
Course registration
Our training courses are delivered by The AMRICC Academy, a training service provided by The AMRICC Centre, which is hosted and managed by Lucideon.
» Purchase this course on the AMRICC Academy website