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Diamond Tech Fuseworks - User Manual

Diamond Tech Fuseworks
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Instructions
Glass Fusing in a Microwave Kiln
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Do not rest or move your hands over the cutting surface.
Small pieces of glass can remain and will cut you. Obtain more
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Do you have a question about the Diamond Tech Fuseworks and is the answer not in the manual?

Summary

Step 1 - Firing and Kiln Preparation

Step 2 - Glass Types

Step 3 - Basic Cutting Instructions

Straight Cuts

Instructions for making straight cuts on glass using a cutter and breaking pliers.

Step 4 - Firing Glass

Step 5 - After Firing

Troubleshooting

Cracked glass in the kiln during firing

Addresses cracked glass during firing and suggests checking COE and cleaning glass.

Fused project cracks after cooling

Solutions for fused projects cracking after cooling, suggesting slower cooling.

Fused project has sharp edges

Removes sharp edges or burs from a fused glass project using a file.

Glass embeds into kiln walls or base

Advice on removing glass embedded in kiln walls or base after cooling.

Cracks, blisters, or loss of interior kiln coating

Addresses kiln coating damage and suggests replacement if heating is uneven.

Dichroic glass shatters and breaks

Troubleshooting dichroic glass shattering by reducing microwave power.

Important Safety Warnings

Overview

The provided document describes the "Fuseworks™ Microwave Kiln," a device designed for glass fusing in a standard microwave oven. This kiln allows users to create fused glass projects, such as jewelry and small decorative items, at home.

Function Description:

The Fuseworks™ Microwave Kiln facilitates the process of fusing glass by concentrating microwave energy to reach the high temperatures required to melt and join pieces of glass. The kiln consists of a base and a lid, designed to be placed inside a microwave oven. When microwaved, the kiln's interior heats up, causing the glass placed inside to fuse. The process involves carefully layering glass pieces on kiln paper within the kiln, microwaving for a specific duration, and then allowing the fused piece to cool slowly. The kiln is intended for use with Fuseworks™ 90 COE (Coefficient of Expansion) fusible glass to prevent cracking or shattering.

Important Technical Specifications:

  • Recommended Microwave Power: 800 to 1200 WATT microwave oven.
  • Maximum Continuous Fusing/Heating Time: Do not exceed 6 minutes.
  • Minimum Clearance: A minimum 3" clearance must be maintained between the ceiling of the microwave and the top of the kiln.
  • Operating Temperature: The interior of the Fuseworks™ Microwave Kiln and its contents can reach temperatures of 1400°F - 1600°F.
  • Glass Compatibility: Specifically designed for Fuseworks™ 90 COE fusible glass. Mixing with other brands or different COEs will result in cracked or shattered projects.
  • Kiln Paper: Required for each firing; kiln paper is only good for one firing.
  • No Kiln Wash: Do NOT use kiln wash on the base of the Fuseworks™ Microwave Kiln.

Usage Features:

  • Pre-firing: Before first use, the empty kiln must be pre-fired for 3 minutes on high in the microwave, then allowed to cool for 30 minutes.
  • Glass Preparation: Users must cut glass to desired shapes. The manual advises against using self-lubricating cutters with oil, as oil can mar the glass or cause breakage during firing. Straight cuts are detailed, including the use of breaking pliers.
  • Loading the Kiln: A square of kiln paper is placed on the kiln base, followed by layered cut glass. A 5/8" border must be maintained around the glass and the edge of the kiln paper to prevent sticking to the kiln walls or base.
  • Microwaving: The kiln with glass is centered in the microwave. The microwave is set to high. Firing times vary based on microwave wattage and glass thickness, with a chart provided as a guideline (e.g., 800 watts: 3-4 minutes for 1/8" glass; 1200 watts: 2-3.5 minutes for 1/8" glass).
  • Monitoring Fuse: A red glow appearing in the hole at the top of the kiln indicates the glass is heating. A yellow/orange glow signifies a full fuse stage where glass corners become rounded. The manual suggests covering the microwave light with cardboard to see the glow more readily.
  • Cooling: After firing, the entire kiln is removed from the microwave using heat-resistant gloves and placed on a heat-resistant pad in a safe, clutter-free location. The lid must remain on for a minimum of 45 minutes (or longer depending on glass thickness) to prevent thermal shock and breakage. The kiln must cool completely for at least 30 minutes before reuse.
  • Troubleshooting: The manual includes a troubleshooting section for common issues like cracked glass, sharp edges, glass embedding in kiln walls, and dichroic glass shattering, offering solutions such as slower cooling, using a glass file, or reducing microwave power.
  • Firing Log: A "Fuseworks™ Firing Log" is provided to record time, additional time, total time, thickness, glass type, and results for each project, encouraging users to keep detailed notes to improve future fusing success.
  • Optional Supplies: The manual lists optional supplies such as Milliefiori glass, Confetti glass, a glass cutter, hot mitts, large and small silver and gold bails, and silver & gold earring sets, suggesting potential projects.

Maintenance Features:

  • Cleaning: The microwave oven should be thoroughly cleaned with a household cleanser after each use of the kiln.
  • Kiln Coating: Cracks, blisters, and/or loss of interior kiln coating may occur but generally do not impact operation. If large areas are damaged and glass heats unevenly, a replacement top is recommended.
  • Glass Removal: If glass embeds itself into kiln walls or base, allow both glass and kiln to cool completely, then use a utility knife to carefully cut and remove the glass.
  • Post-Cooling Cleaning: Once the fused project is completely cool, fiber paper can be removed from the back by rubbing with a wet paper towel or cleaning under warm water.

Diamond Tech Fuseworks Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandDiamond Tech
ModelFuseworks
CategoryKilns
LanguageEnglish