General Questions 

Q: How do I submit a tax-exempt form?

At this time, Sculptfire Pottery only charges tax in the state of Texas. If you are tax-exempt in any of the states that we charge tax in, please send a copy of your tax-exempt form to sales@sculptfirepottery.com and reference your order number. Tax-exempt must be submitted at the time of purchase / before your unit ships in order to receive credit.

 

3D Potter 

Q: Do I need 3D printer or pottery experience to use a 3D potter Printer?

You do not need previous experience, but it helps. 3D Potter ceramic printers work like standard 3D printers. 3D printers read g-code files, which must be generated by a slicing program, which then is fed a model file. If you do not have 3D printing experience, you will need to learn model file generation as well as slicing software operations. There are many videos available on YouTube that will teach you how to use 3D printers, slicing, and model generation.

Clay and its preparation is another part of using our printers. There are many factors that can affect the properties of clay and having the right consistency is key. Clay that is too hard or too soft can cause issues with our extruder system. We have YouTube videos on clay preparation. Have fun and be prepared to get dirty.

 

Hot Shot Oven & Kiln 

Q: What are the differences between your Novus Controller and TAP Controller

When picking out your Hot Shot Oven, you will have the ability to choose the standard built-in NOVUS Controller or upgrade to our TAP Smart Controller. (excluding Glass Ovens these are standard TAP PRO Controller only)

The Novus N20K48 can be operated by simply turning on the oven and setting the temperature needed or you can download the free Novus Quicktune App to be able to program the controller more easily via your phone/tablet. The controller can also be programmed using onboard buttons and a series of key presses. The Novus N20K48 controller is limited to only storing 20 programs at a time with a max of 9 segments per program

The TAP Pro controller is a state-of-the-art, programmable, full-color touchscreen controller. The TAP Pro can store an unlimited number of programs and can be easily programmed on-screen or by using the free mobile app. All Hot Shot Pro ovens come with the Tap controller as well as built-in Wi-fi for the ultimate user experience. The TAP Mobile App allows the user to easily create and monitor programs in real-time and allows the user the ability to set notifications, view firing logs with by-the-minute data points, and receive push notifications about the operation schedules. The TAP controller also allows you to see maintenance schedules and offset a program that is currently running!

 

Q: What is the difference between the 2000F and the 2200F ovens?

The difference between the temperature range in our ovens are the components used in each build. The 2000F ovens support primarily Glass Making and Heat Treating. Most of the techniques that go along with these two industries do not exceed the 2000F. The 2200F ovens are more often used in the Knife Making and Metallurgy industries. Some materials may need to come to use this higher temperature range. Regardless of the oven chosen, Hot Shot Ovens are truly versatile and can be used for many purposes.

 

Q: Do I need to add the SSR separately or is it included in each oven?

All of our ovens come standard with everything you need, including the SSR!

 

Q: Can I upgrade my controller?

Simple answer, YES! However, how this process is done will depend on the model of oven purchased.  Please contact us to get a replacement quote submitted.

 

Olympic Kilns 

Q: What is a test kiln?

Test kilns are a crucial tool for high production studio potters. Their small size makes them ideal for developing and trying new glaze recipes as well as running a new batch of glaze to see results before putting it on a full load of ware. High Fire Test kilns are also very efficient for firing smaller loads when not in use for testing. Olympic Kilns small test kilns, such as the 1214HE, 1414HE and SQ169HE, are powered to run on 240-208V and high fire to cone 10 (2350°F /1288°C). While these models are small, they are larger than the typical 120V test kiln. Precise programming via an electronic controller allows users to match test kiln results when items are fired in a larger production kiln.

 

Speedball Art 

Q: What types of glazes are available from Speedball Art?

Speedball makes 3 different types of glazes:

(1) Mid-Fire Glaze

• Firing Range : Cone 5|6
• Mottling and Reduction-like effects with one glaze
• Recommended application on Cone 04 bisque
• All colors lead-free + dinnerware safe when used and fired as recommended 

(2) Underglaze 

• Firing Range : Cone 05-10
• Use Speedball Clear Earthenware or Stoneware Clear Glaze
• Recommended for greenware or bisque
• All colors lead-free + dinnerware safe when used and fired as recommended

(3) Earthenware Glaze

• Firing Range : Cone 05|06
• Recommended application on Cone 04 bisque
• All colors lead-free + dinnerware safe when used and fired as recommended

Q: What is the difference between underglaze and glaze?

Underglaze fires matte, and it does not seal unless a clear glaze is applied and acts similar to a paint.

Glaze will melt and seal the piece without the use of a clear glaze